Solar Eclipse on February 17, 2026: Will the annular ‘ring of fire’ be visible in India?

A rare annular solar eclipse will occur on February 17, 2026, marking the first solar eclipse of the year. While the celestial event has generated significant curiosity among skywatchers and astronomers, it will not be visible from India, as its path lies primarily over Antarctica and parts of the Southern Hemisphere.

According to EarthSky, the eclipse will begin at 09:56 UTC, with the maximum phase occurring at 12:12 UTC. The event will be visible mainly over Antarctica, with partial visibility in regions close to the continent. Parts of Southern Africa, including Cape Town and Durban, as well as Zimbabwe and Tanzania, are expected to witness the eclipse. The southern tips of Argentina and Chile may also briefly observe the phenomenon. Additional regions where the eclipse will be partially visible include Mauritius and Namibia.

Where will the February 17 solar eclipse be visible?

India falls entirely outside the shadow track of the eclipse, making it impossible to view the event from the country. Although many skywatchers may be disappointed, live streams by agencies such as NASA will provide an opportunity to follow the event online. Visibility of any eclipse depends on geographic location, and this alignment favours the Southern Hemisphere. The next solar eclipse of 2026 is scheduled to take place on August 12.

Date and time of the annular solar eclipse 2026

The eclipse will occur on Amavasya Tithi of Krishna Paksha in the month of Phalguna and falls on Tuesday, February 17, 2026. The eclipse is expected to begin at 03:26 PM and end at 07:57 PM.

What is an annular solar eclipse?

As per NASA, the February 17 event will be an annular solar eclipse. An annular eclipse occurs when the Moon is at a greater distance from the Earth and passes between the Sun and Earth, covering the Sun’s centre while leaving its outer edges visible. This creates a bright ring, commonly referred to as the “ring of fire,” making it a striking spectacle for observers within the visibility path.

Astrological significance of the February 17 eclipse

The eclipse will take place in the Aquarius zodiac sign under the Dhanishtha Nakshatra. At the time of the event, the Sun will be positioned in Aquarius and move into the fourth quarter of Dhanishta. Rahu, Mercury, Venus and the Moon will also align in Aquarius alongside the Sun. Astrologically, the conjunction of Rahu and the Sun in Aquarius is considered to form the eclipse combination, which is traditionally viewed as inauspicious.

(With inputs from TOI)