Thanks for the info, Eddie and TTT. So, I have read somewhere that at least one Imam describes the muslim religion, without any detectable irony, as "adaptable" and open to change.
If they will accept a decree from mecca, or the ruling of a local imam setting an arbitrary time for sun-up and sun-down so that the faithful can follow their observances in these xtreme geographic latitudes - why not just do that for everyone? Set a 12-hour fast period - say between 9am and 9pm local time, with water as neccessary to quench undue thirst? How much daily privation is needed in order to generate proper spiritual enlightenment?
I know muslims say that the fasting is not the most important part of ramadan - that the whole thing has a spiritual focus, such as making peace, forging anew family relationships, all that malarkey- but the most visible aspect of ramadan is the fasting.
Adapting to change would be the mark of a grown up and tolerant religion.....