UAE Pioneers AI-Equipped Drones for Ramadan Moon Sighting
2 Sources
2 Sources
[1]
UAE sends AI-equipped drones to spot Ramadan moon
The United Arab Emirates is flying AI-equipped drones to help spot the crescent moon marking the start of Ramadan, the Muslim holy month, official media said on Friday. The "world-first" innovation puts a new twist on a centuries-old tradition where people scan the skies for the first glimpse of the newly visible moon. "The use of AI-powered drones extends the concept of direct visual observation, which remains the primary method for confirming the sighting of the crescent moon," the WAM news agency said, citing the UAE Council for Fatwa. The report did not give details about the drones and how they would use artificial intelligence (AI). "This method will complement traditional naked-eye sighting accounts and advanced astronomical observatories across the country, which are equipped with state-of-the-art technology to ensure precise moon sighting," the report said. The UAE also gave the green light to moon-spotters to scour the heavens on Friday. Moon sightings can be reported using a hotline number or an online form. The country, which appointed the world's first minister of state for AI in 2017 and launched the Falcon generative AI model in 2023, is vying to be a world leader in the technology. During Ramadan, a time of prayer and giving to charity, Muslims around the world refrain from eating and drinking during daylight hours, breaking their fasts at sunset.
[2]
UAE sends AI-equipped drones to spot Ramadhan moon
DUBAI (AFP) - The United Arab Emirates is flying AI-equipped drones to help spot the crescent moon marking the start of Ramadhan, the Muslim holy month, official media said on Friday. The "world-first" innovation puts a new twist on a centuries-old tradition where people scan the skies for the first glimpse of the newly visible moon. "The use of AI-powered drones extends the concept of direct visual observation, which remains the primary method for confirming the sighting of the crescent moon," the WAM news agency said, citing the UAE Council for Fatwa. The report did not give details about the drones and how they would use artificial intelligence (AI). "This method will complement traditional naked-eye sighting accounts and advanced astronomical observatories across the country, which are equipped with state-of-the-art technology to ensure precise moon sighting," the report said. The UAE also gave the green light to moon-spotters to scour the heavens on Friday. Moon sightings can be reported using a hotline number or an online form. The country, which appointed the world's first minister of state for AI in 2017 and launched the Falcon generative AI model in 2023, is vying to be a world leader in the technology. During Ramadhan, a time of prayer and giving to charity, Muslims around the world refrain from eating and drinking during daylight hours, breaking their fasts at sunset.
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The United Arab Emirates introduces AI-powered drones to assist in spotting the crescent moon that marks the beginning of Ramadan, combining traditional methods with cutting-edge technology.
UAE Introduces AI-Powered Drones for Ramadan Moon Sighting
In a groundbreaking move, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has deployed AI-equipped drones to assist in spotting the crescent moon that marks the beginning of Ramadan, the Muslim holy month. This innovative approach, described as a "world-first," combines centuries-old tradition with cutting-edge technology, showcasing the UAE's commitment to technological advancement in religious and cultural practices 1.
Blending Tradition with Technology
The UAE Council for Fatwa has stated that the use of AI-powered drones "extends the concept of direct visual observation," which has long been the primary method for confirming the sighting of the crescent moon 2. This innovative approach is not meant to replace traditional methods but to complement them, working alongside naked-eye sightings and advanced astronomical observatories equipped with state-of-the-art technology.
The Role of AI in Moon Sighting
While specific details about the drones and their AI capabilities have not been disclosed, the integration of artificial intelligence in this process represents a significant step forward in the application of technology to religious practices. The AI-equipped drones are expected to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of moon sighting, potentially reducing uncertainties in determining the start of Ramadan 1.
Maintaining Traditional Practices
Despite the introduction of this new technology, the UAE continues to honor traditional moon-sighting methods. The country has authorized moon-spotters to scan the skies, and individuals can report moon sightings through a dedicated hotline or an online form. This approach ensures that the community remains involved in the process while benefiting from technological advancements 2.
UAE's Commitment to AI Leadership
The implementation of AI-equipped drones for moon sighting is part of the UAE's broader strategy to establish itself as a world leader in artificial intelligence. The country has been at the forefront of AI adoption, having appointed the world's first minister of state for AI in 2017 and launched the Falcon generative AI model in 2023 1.
Implications for Ramadan Observance
The accurate determination of the start of Ramadan is crucial for Muslims worldwide, as it marks the beginning of a month-long period of fasting from dawn to sunset. By leveraging AI technology, the UAE aims to provide more precise and timely information about the sighting of the crescent moon, potentially helping millions of Muslims to synchronize their Ramadan observances more effectively 2.
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