Training the UK’s next generation of Moonsighting leaders

A new multidisciplinary astronomy course for Muslim leaders in the UK, with New Crescent Society’s Imad Ahmed, and astronomers and experts from Cambridge University’s Institute of Astronomy, and the University of Leeds.  

Delivered through a mix of online and in-person sessions in Leeds and Cambridge, this 9-month course will cover: 

• The science of the Islamic calendar: Understanding the astronomical underpinnings of the calendar, how to sight the moon, lunar phases and visibility, using astronomical data, apps, and optical aids
• Islamic and cultural dimensions: Exploring the religious and social questions surrounding the Islamic calendar in the UK and beyond.
• Community leadership & communication: Learning how to engage local communities, build networks, present to an audience, train and inspire others

 We are training moonsighting leaders who are excited by the prospect of:

• leading moonsightings in their own area
• training local lunar observation groups within their own community
• sharing best practice within a national network of practitioners 
• working towards a united Islamic calendar in the UK

Find out more

Imad Ahmed and partners hosted an introductory Zoom session on Sunday 26th October at 11:30 GMT. This included more information about the course, chance to ask questions, and see how you can get involved. 

A recording from the Moonsighters Academy info session (26 October) will be made available before the end of October. Please also see the Frequently Asked Questions. 

We will be accepting applications from Sunday 26 October until Saturday 15 November 2025.

Apply online (via forms.office.com).

Applications must be received by the deadline: 23:59 GMT, Saturday 15 November. Those who complete the application form will be able to return and update your responses until the deadline has passed.

Is this course for me?

The Moonsighters Academy is for anyone passionate about reviving the Islamic tradition of moonsighting.

This programme will especially appeal to you if:

• You’re interested in moonsighting, nature, astronomy, or the Islamic calendar.
• You’re active in your community: whether through a mosque, scouts, parent group, teaching role, or even running a WhatsApp or social media group.
• You want to develop your leadership and communication skills to inspire others through moonsighting.
• You believe in collaboration and want to be part of a national network working towards a united UK calendar.

Do I need prior experience?

No! Absolute beginners are warmly encouraged to apply. Some background in astronomy, teaching, or community work can help, but enthusiasm and commitment matter most.

By the end of the course, you’ll have the knowledge, confidence, and practical experience to lead your own moonsighting chapter, helping your community reconnect to the moon.

Course structure, commitments and key dates

• Once a month: online 90-minute weekend/evening training sessions with astronomers and academics from the Universities of Cambridge and Leeds, from December 2025–August 2026.
• Once a month: hands-on experience gained though monthly local moonsighting each month
• On site training sessions: Leeds (residential): Thursday 8 & Friday 9 January 2026; Cambridge: Monday 15 June 2026 (with evening lunar observation session with optical aids)

Note: There will be no online training sessions in January or June, as we will be meeting in person. Financial support will be provided for accommodation and travel.

Our first 90-minute online training session will take place on Sunday 14 December, 12:00–13:30.

This course is made possible by a Spark award from the UKRI Science & Technology Facilities Council, with additional in-kind support from the University of Cambridge (Faculty of Divinity & Institute of Astronomy) and the University of Leeds.

For more about the project team, the principles behind this course, and answers to some frequently asked questions, see the left-hand menu.

Featured image: Includes an original photograph of the new crescent moon taken by Nirupam Sarker in 2014. Available from Wikimedia, CC by SA 4.0.