Bismillahir-Rahmanir-Rahim.

Assalamualaikum Wa-Rahmatullahi Wa-barakatuh. To look for the crescent moon (Hilal) on the 29th day of each lunar month is the Sunnah (practice) of Prophet Muhammad (sallallahu alayhi wasallam). To attempt sighting the Hilal by a group of Muslims have been deemed by the Fuqahaa (Jurists) as a communal obligation (Fardh-e-Kifaayah).

Observation experiences in the UK over past few years have suggested that it is possible to sight the Hilal on the UK horizon for a few months in a year (when the Hilal is in the Northern Hemisphere). However, adverse weather conditions can reduce the chances of a successful sighting. Therefore, it is important to have a large group of people making the attempt from different parts of the country so that if most of the country is cloudy, at least one part may make a successful sighting, Insha-Allah.

In order to co-ordinate the above Hilal observation attempts in the UK on a regular basis as well as to send out reminders, observation reports and discuss the relevant issues (e.g. the science and/or fiqh of moon sighting) this mailing list (ICOUK) has been set up.

If you are an UK resident and have an interest in Hilal observation, than this is the ideal group for you to join. However, if you are a non-UK resident, it may be better for you to join an International group such as ICOP (http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ICOP/), instead of this group, Insha-Allah.

Wassalam,

Qamar Uddin,
ICOUK Moderator
18 October 2008
----
Asking Day off from work for Eid by Azhar Usman (USA)
http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=9xuWew-TPwI