PlanetPic: Ramadan around the world in gorgeous photos

Many devout Muslims around the world started observing the dawn-to-dusk fast for the holy month of Ramadan early this week.

The first day of the celebration that marks when the Quran was first revealed varies. It falls on the day of the sighting of the crescent moon, as the Islamic Calendar is based on the cycle of the lunar calendar, but even the Middle East's moon-watching team doesn't seem to clear up the confusion around Ramadan's start. Regardless, Muslims in all countries have their preparations underway for the ninth month of their calendar.