http://www.islamicity.com/articles/Articles.asp?ref=IC0111-361
As we approach the end of the month of Shaban, a tired old subject becomes a center of discussion to participants in Muslim events, even informal dinners and celebrations, and Internet chat groups: the day to start the month of Ramadan!
Both sides of the divide now seem to be perpetually divided over the question — whether to begin fasting with the visual sighting or according to the scientific calculations for the birth of the crescent.
A Muslim astronomer records his disappointment over the issue: “In the present era of scientific and technological advancement, three decades after man landed on the moon, some Muslims are still avoiding the use of scientific knowledge for making an Islamic calendar …”
He stresses, “Today, Muslims have expertise and access to technology to understand the calculations of when and where the sighting occurs. Recorded data shows how the science of moon sighting is compared with the actual observations. The results show that calculations of sighting and observations have matched every month since 1993. He also points out that calculations for sighting are surety (haqqul-yaqeen), while claims of sighting have the possibility of suspicion (zann) or mistake.
Islam is a strong proponent of using reason. Muslim scholarship and leadership need to engage in the exercise of reasoning and avoid any confusion. At a time when humanity is either being starved or bombed, the debate on when to start Ramadan must not overwhelm us.
Let us prepare ourselves for a month of blessing that is to arrive shortly. Let us remember the real spirit of caring and sharing of this blessed month (Ramadan). Let us open our hearts and homes to the world and bring healing to all those who are suffering. Let us pray for the freedom of the oppressed, patience for the survivors and prayers for the deceased.
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According to Moonsighting.com the first day of Ramadan will be on Saturday, October 16, 2004 for most of the world except Northern Europe and Northern Asia. England is in a situation that this moon may or may not be seen on October 15.
Ramadan 1425/2004: The birth of moon is on Thursday October 14, 2004 at 2:49 Universal Time. On Oct 14, this moon is going to be 22.4 hours old on West coast of USA, and still impossible to see because it is in the Southern Hemisphere. It may be seen with difficulty in parts of South America, and with ease in Polynesian Islands. It cannot be seen in Japan, Asia, Australia, Africa, and Europe on October 14. It will be visible in most of the world on October 15. However, in Northern Europe and in England, it may not be seen even on October 15, although it is going to be 38 hours old, because it is in the Southern Hemisphere. It is going to be less than 3 degrees above horizon at sunset in England on Oct 15 and the glow of sunlight even after sunset will make it very difficult to see.
Please consult your local Masjid/Islamic Center for the start of Ramadan in your area.