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Ismail
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ismail@iainlhokseumawe.ac.id
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INDONESIA
Astroislamica: Journal of Islamic Astronomy
ISSN : -     EISSN : 29630290     DOI : https://doi.org/10.47766/astroislamica
Core Subject : Religion, Science,
Astroislamica: Journal of Islamic Astronomy is a journal that studies Islamic astronomy and Islamic laws related to astronomy. Astroislamica focuses on Islamic astronomy topics such as Qibla direction, prayer times, calendars, and eclipses through multiple perspectives, including Islamic law, mathematics, sociology, anthropology, politics, astrophotography, climatology, geophysics, and philology. E-ISSN 2963-0290 (Online - Elektronik)
Articles 59 Documents
Penentuan Azimut Kiblat Masjid Kampus UIN Sultanah Nahrasiyah Lhokseumawe Menggunakan Rumus Segitiga Bola Berbasis Python Ravik Walhidayah; Ismail Ismail
Astroislamica: Journal of Islamic Astronomy Vol. 4 No. 2 (2025): Astroislamica: Journal of Islamic Astronomy (Desember)
Publisher : Islamic Astronomy Department, Sharia and Law Faculty

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.47766/astroislamica.v4i2.6012

Abstract

Prayer time is a compulsory act of worship for Muslims, the validity of which depends on the fulfillment of specific conditions, one of which is facing the qibla, the direction of the Kaaba in the Masjid al-Haram, Makkah. Therefore, accurate determination of the qibla direction is a crucial aspect of performing prayer. Various methods have been used to determine the qibla direction, such as the annual Rashdul Qiblah phenomenon and calculations based on spherical trigonometry. The Rashdul Qiblah method is simple and accurate; however, its application is limited to specific times. In contrast, spherical trigonometry can be applied at any time and offers high precision, but the calculation process is relatively complex and prone to human error. This study aims to implement spherical trigonometry using the Python programming language to simplify the process of qibla direction determination and to evaluate its accuracy. The research employs a library research method with a computational simulation approach. The qibla direction is calculated by inputting the latitude and longitude coordinates of the location and the Kaaba into a Python program, and the results are then compared with field measurement data obtained using a theodolite. The results show that the Python-based qibla direction calculation produces an azimuth value with a difference of 32.62 arcseconds compared to the theodolite measurements. This difference is considered very small and does not practically affect the accuracy of the qibla direction. Therefore, the proposed method is proven to be accurate, efficient, and suitable as a modern alternative for determining the qibla direction.
Syekh Muhammad Arsyad Al-Banjari dan Kajian Falak Nusantara Nur Amelia Ridha; Ahmad Izzuddin
Astroislamica: Journal of Islamic Astronomy Vol. 4 No. 2 (2025): Astroislamica: Journal of Islamic Astronomy (Desember)
Publisher : Islamic Astronomy Department, Sharia and Law Faculty

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.47766/astroislamica.v4i2.6106

Abstract

This paper examines the role of Syekh Muhammad Arsyad al-Banjari in the development of Falak (Islamic astronomy) in South Kalimantan, complementing prior biographical studies and scholarship. The issue addressed is the paucity of research on the historical dissemination of Falak knowledge by indigenous Banjar scholars. Employing a library research methodology, the principal data source is Yusuf Halidi’s Ulama Besar Kalimantan Syekh Muhammad Arsyad al-Banjari. A qualitative content analysis traces Syekh Muhammad Arsyad’s more than three decades of education in Mecca, his corrective interventions regarding qibla orientation in mosques across Batavia, and his initiative to establish an Islamic educational institution in Kampung Dalam Pagar. The findings demonstrate that he mastered thirty-five disciplines, that his treatise Mas’alah al-Qiblah fil-Batawy served as the primary reference for qibla determination in his era, and that he founded a pesantren which produced successive generations of Banjar scholars. These results underscore Syekh Muhammad Arsyad al-Banjari’s pivotal contribution to the Nusantara Falak tradition and highlight the imperative of preserving his manuscript legacy.
Fiqh Principles and the Legitimacy of Indonesia's Isbat Session System Annisa Nurfadilah; Ahmad Adib Rofiuddin; Muh. Rasywan Syarif
Astroislamica: Journal of Islamic Astronomy Vol. 4 No. 2 (2025): Astroislamica: Journal of Islamic Astronomy (Desember)
Publisher : Islamic Astronomy Department, Sharia and Law Faculty

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.47766/astroislamica.v4i2.6890

Abstract

This study aims to examine the sharia legitimacy of the Isbat Session in determining the beginning of the lunar month in Indonesia through the perspective of the fiqh principle of Tasharruf al-Imam ‘ala al-Ra’iyyah Manutun bi al-Maslahah. The focus of the study is to analyze the normative basis of this principle as a basis for state authority and to test the effectiveness of its implementation in reconciling differences in hisab-rukyat and realizing the welfare of the people. The study uses empirical qualitative methods with content analysis and critical discourse analysis approaches. Primary data includes official documents from the Ministry of Religious Affairs regarding the results of the Isbat Session for the 2015–2025 period and public responses, while secondary data are sourced from fiqh literature, journals, and related books. The research findings indicate that the Isbat Session has strong sharia legitimacy based on the principle of tasharruf al-imam, where the state acts as ulil amri who ensures the realization of public welfare through collective decisions. Empirically, 82% of the Isbat Session decisions were successfully agreed upon by the government, NU, and Muhammadiyah, proving the forum's effectiveness as a unifying instrument. However, 18% of the differences that occurred—particularly with Muhammadiyah—were caused by fundamental methodological differences between rukyat bil fi'li (NU) and hisab wujudul hilal (Muhammadiyah). This study concludes that the Isbat Session is a form of Islamic jurisprudence that is valid according to sharia and effective in creating legal certainty and social stability, although further efforts are still needed to embrace the remaining methodological differences.
From Text to Context: Fazlur Rahman's Double Movement Theory in Contemporary Qibla Direction Issues Hendri Hendri; Saiful Amin
Astroislamica: Journal of Islamic Astronomy Vol. 4 No. 2 (2025): Astroislamica: Journal of Islamic Astronomy (Desember)
Publisher : Islamic Astronomy Department, Sharia and Law Faculty

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.47766/astroislamica.v4i2.6942

Abstract

Qibla direction determination is an important part of Muslim worship that signifies unity of direction and obedience to Allah SWT. However, in the development of modern science and technology, there are differences in the methods and results of determining the Qibla direction in various regions of the Islamic world. This problem requires a dynamic interpretation approach, so that the values of the Qur'an can be understood and applied according to the context of the times. This research uses Fazlur Rahman's hermeneutic approach with Double Movement theory to interpret the verses about Qibla direction. The results show that the Qibla direction is not just a matter of geographical precision, but a symbol of unity, independence, and spiritual orientation of Muslims. With the application of Double Movement, the moral values of the Qur'an can be actualized through the use of modern technology in a maslahat manner and in accordance with the objectives of sharia. in the application of the discovery method.
An Analysis of Qibla Direction Tolerance According to Sheikh Muhammad Yasin Al-Fadani: A Solution to Qibla Deviation Nur Mahmudi Qiromi; Ahmad Izzuddin; M. Basthoni
Astroislamica: Journal of Islamic Astronomy Vol. 5 No. 1 (2026): Astroislamica: Journal of Islamic Astronomy (June)
Publisher : Islamic Astronomy Department, Sharia and Law Faculty

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.47766/astroislamica.v5i1.6223

Abstract

Determining the Qibla direction is a crucial aspect of performing the prayer (salat), particularly for Muslims living far from the Kaaba. Issues arise regarding whether one must face the exact structure of the Kaaba ('ayn al-Ka'bah) or if merely facing its general direction (jihat al-Ka'bah) is sufficient. This study aims to analyze the concept of Qibla direction tolerance according to Sheikh Muhammad Yasin al-Fadani as a solution to Qibla deviation, specifically within the context of mosques in the Nusantara (Malay Archipelago) region. This research employs a qualitative approach using a literature review method, examining the works of Sheikh Yasin alongside both classical and contemporary literature related to Islamic astronomy (ilmu falak). The results show that Sheikh Yasin proposes two scopes for the Qibla direction: jihat al-kubra (up to 180°) and jihat al-sughra (up to 90°), with a maximum tolerance of 45° to the right and left of the ideal direction. This view demonstrates the flexibility within classical Islamic jurisprudence (fiqh) regarding the limitations of measurement tools and observation methods in the past. Nevertheless, Sheikh Yasin consistently emphasizes the importance of Islamic astronomy and the mastery of scientific methods to determine a more accurate Qibla direction. In conclusion, Sheikh Yasin's perspective provides room for shari'i (legal) tolerance in determining the Qibla direction, while simultaneously emphasizing the urgency of utilizing modern technology to achieve greater precision in religious practices.
The Concept of Syafaq Abyaḍ in Determining the Beginning of the ʿIshāʾ Prayer Time Ahmad Abrar; Friska Linia Sari
Astroislamica: Journal of Islamic Astronomy Vol. 5 No. 1 (2026): Astroislamica: Journal of Islamic Astronomy (June)
Publisher : Islamic Astronomy Department, Sharia and Law Faculty

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.47766/astroislamica.v5i1.7299

Abstract

Prayer times are determined by the position of the Sun on the celestial sphere, including the Isha prayer, which begins with the disappearance of syafaq (twilight). Syafaq is classified into two types: syafaq aḥmar (red twilight) and syafaq abyaḍ (white twilight). The Shafi'i and Maliki madhhabs utilize syafaq aḥmar as their reference, whereas the Hanbali and Hanafi madhhabs rely on syafaq abyaḍ. In Indonesia, the Ministry of Religious Affairs (Kemenag RI) defines the start of Isha based on the disappearance of syafaq aḥmar at a solar altitude of -18°. However, light and air pollution significantly hinder the observation of this phenomenon. This qualitative field research aims to observe the disappearance of syafaq on Masalembu Island, an ideal location offering an unobstructed view of the western horizon and pristine, dark night skies (sky brightness value of 22.00 mag./arc sec²). Primary data were collected by recording night sky brightness using a Sky Quality Meter (SQM). The results indicate a discrepancy with the official regulations. While the Ministry of Religious Affairs establishes -18° as the threshold for the disappearance of syafaq aḥmar, field data reveal that even syafaq abyaḍ has completely vanished at this solar altitude. These findings emphasize the critical need for accurate twilight observations in pollution-free areas to ensure more precise determinations of Islamic prayer times.
Analysis of Nite Sky Brightness on Star Observation in the City of Makassar Baso Surya Al-Qadri; Rahma Amir; Andi Syam Rizal
Astroislamica: Journal of Islamic Astronomy Vol. 5 No. 1 (2026): Astroislamica: Journal of Islamic Astronomy (June)
Publisher : Islamic Astronomy Department, Sharia and Law Faculty

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.47766/astroislamica.v5i1.7439

Abstract

This The main research problem of this study is how the brightness of the night sky affects the visibility of stars in Makassar City, and what solutions can be applied to overcome the limitations caused by light pollution. This problem is formulated into two sub-problems: (1) How does night sky brightness impact stellar observation in Makassar? and (2) What strategies can be used to address the challenges of observing under urban sky conditions? This study employs a descriptive mixed-method approach with a falak-astronomical perspective. Quantitative data were obtained from secondary measurements of night sky brightness using Light Pollution Map values expressed in mag/arcsec² and classified through the Bortle Scale. Qualitative analysis was conducted by interpreting the observational implications of skyglow on falak practices and stellar visibility. Data were collected from four observation locations: Pantai Losari, Pantai Tanjung Layar Putih, UIN Samata, and Malino.The results show significant variation in sky brightness across the locations. Pantai Losari recorded the lowest darkness level (18.85 mag/arcsec²), categorized as urban sky, where only bright stars can be observed. Meanwhile, Malino showed the darkest condition (21.01 mag/arcsec²), classified as rural sky, allowing clearer visibility of faint stars. These findings confirm that increasing urban light pollution reduces the limiting magnitude and restricts astronomical observation in falak studies. The implications of this research are: (1) night sky brightness is a crucial factor in supporting observational astronomy; (2) the study highlights the need for darker observation zones around Makassar; and (3) it strengthens the relevance of integrating falak tradition with modern sky-quality analysis to preserve accurate celestial observation.
The Sun's Vertical Depression Effect on True Dawn: A Visual Observation Study Hariyadi Putraga; Arwin Juli Rakhmadi; Ahmad Abdulwfa
Astroislamica: Journal of Islamic Astronomy Vol. 5 No. 1 (2026): Astroislamica: Journal of Islamic Astronomy (June)
Publisher : Islamic Astronomy Department, Sharia and Law Faculty

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.47766/astroislamica.v5i1.7573

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the influence of the Sun's vertical depth on the appearance of true Dawn in Medan City using the naked-eye observation method. Observations in Medan show that the true dawn light first appears when the Sun is at a depression angle of −14° to −12° below the eastern horizon. The difference between the visible true Dawn and the official dawn time (-20°) is about 6°. These results are consistent with more than 30 studies conducted across over 10 countries at various latitudes, utilizing approximately five different monitoring methods. These results confirm the need to correct the dawn time based on local observations and actual sky conditions, so that the determination of the time of worship better aligns with astronomical reality.
Comparative Prayer Time Computation: Nailul Watar, Ephemeris, and Istiwa’ Method M. Saifulloh; Ahmadi Syifaul Anam; Jundil Ikrom; Agus Solikin; Ahmad Adib Rofiuddin
Astroislamica: Journal of Islamic Astronomy Vol. 5 No. 1 (2026): Astroislamica: Journal of Islamic Astronomy (June)
Publisher : Islamic Astronomy Department, Sharia and Law Faculty

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.47766/astroislamica.v5i1.7617

Abstract

Investigates the accuracy and consistency of prayer time calculations from both classical Islamic texts and modern astronomical data. I used a qualitative-comparative field research design, with Nailul Watar by KH. Ahmad Asrori, as the primary classical source, and the 2022–2023 astronomical ephemeris data, calculated using Akh. Mukkaram's Astrology. I also included supporting references on Islamic astronomy and prayer times. To collect data, I documented and analyzed the two methods before empirically validating them. The results show that the Nailul Watar method provides highly accurate calculations of Zuhr and Asr prayer times, with discrepancies from the ephemeris results measured in seconds and never exceeding one minute, without needing additional safety margins. Validation using the Istiwa' stick confirmed that the method meets the fiqh standards commonly used by Indonesian scholars, although observations showed that shadows appeared slightly earlier than the calculated times. The study suggests that further research be conducted by combining computational modeling of both methods and incorporating shadow-length data to improve precision in future prayer time determinations.