Identification of Mosque Qibla Azimuth Accuracy Based on Four-Direction Laser System in Seram Utara Timur Kobi

Abstrak

Ideally, the Qibla direction is a fundamental element in mosque architecture that must be determined accurately to ensure that Islamic worship practices align with Sharia principles. However, in reality, many mosques in various regions, including the Seram Utara Timur Kobi Subdistrict, Central Maluku Regency, are suspected to have Qibla direction deviations due to inaccurate methods of determining the Qibla azimuth. This study aims to identify the accuracy level of mosque Qibla azimuths in the region using a mapping system based on the Four Direction Laser System (Foudils). The method applied in this research involves two-dimensional mapping through satellite image projection and true north orientation measurement using intersecting laser beam projections, combined with a geological compass and a digital protractor with 0.01° precision. Astronomical data are then analyzed using a simulator based on spherical trigonometric equations to obtain the Qibla Azimuth to Spherical Building (QUTSB) value. The findings indicate a significant angular deviation (SM) between the mosque building azimuth (M) and the QUTSB, with M ranging from 269°36'0" to 310°54'0", while the QUTSB ranges from 291°23'36.80" to 291°26'32.13". These results show that most mosques in the region are oriented too far westward, leading to an inaccurate Qibla direction that requires realignment to precisely face the Kaaba in Mecca.