Annular Solar Eclipse February 17 is already creating excitement among skywatchers who do not want to miss the first big celestial event of 2026. The phrase ring of fire sounds dramatic, and it truly is. When the Moon moves in front of the Sun and leaves a bright glowing circle behind, the sky turns into a rare natural spectacle. Many people in India are wondering whether this stunning sight will be visible from their cities.
If you are searching for clear answers about Annular Solar Eclipse February 17, you are in the right place. This guide explains the exact date, time, visibility, and locations in simple language. You will also understand how an annular solar eclipse works, why the ring of fire happens, and what to expect from upcoming eclipses in 2026 and beyond.
Annular Solar Eclipse February 17
The Annular Solar Eclipse February 17 will take place on Tuesday and is considered the first major astronomical event of the year. It will begin at 07:01 UTC, which is 12:31 PM Indian Standard Time. However, visibility depends on location, not just timing. This specific eclipse will mainly be visible from Antarctica, including research stations located there. Some partial phases may be seen in parts of Argentina and South Africa after sunrise. Unfortunately, India will not witness this event. The path of the eclipse does not pass over the Indian region, which means there will be no partial or full view from the country.
Overview Table
| Event Detail | Information |
| Event Name | Annular Solar Eclipse |
| Date | February 17, 2026 |
| Day | Tuesday |
| Start Time Universal | 07:01 UTC |
| Start Time India | 12:31 PM IST |
| Main Visibility Region | Antarctica |
| Partial Visibility Regions | Argentina and South Africa |
| Visibility in India | Not visible |
| Maximum Ring Duration | Up to 2 minutes 20 seconds |
| Next Annular Eclipse | February 2027 |
What is an annual solar eclipse?
An annular solar eclipse happens when the Moon passes directly between the Earth and the Sun. However, unlike a total solar eclipse, the Moon does not completely cover the Sun. This is because the Moon is near its farthest point from Earth, known as apogee. At this distance, the Moon appears slightly smaller in the sky.
As a result, when alignment happens, the center of the Sun is blocked but the outer edge remains visible. This creates a bright circular ring around the Moon, which is why it is called the ring of fire. During the Annular Solar Eclipse February 17, up to 96 percent of the Sun’s center may be covered at maximum phase. The ring effect can last for around two minutes and twenty seconds depending on the exact viewing location.
It is important to understand that the Sun is never fully covered during an annular eclipse. That means it is never safe to look directly at it without proper eye protection.
Will ‘ring of fire’ be visible in India?
This is the most searched question related to Annular Solar Eclipse February 17, especially among Indian sky enthusiasts. The clear answer is no. The eclipse path is limited mainly to Antarctica. Since India is far outside the shadow path, the event will not be visible from any part of the country.
Even a partial phase will not be seen in India. This may disappoint many astronomy lovers, but eclipse visibility depends strictly on celestial alignment and geographic location. The February 17 solar eclipse visibility map does not include India.
For those tracking solar eclipses in India in 2026, it is important to check future dates when the path of the eclipse crosses the region.
Check exact time, location
The Annular Solar Eclipse February 17 will start at 07:01 Coordinated Universal Time. In India, that converts to 12:31 PM IST. However, since the eclipse will not be visible in India, the time is only relevant for those following the event online or through live streams.
Here are the key visibility details:
Main viewing region
Antarctica
Partial viewing regions
Southern parts of Argentina
Parts of South Africa
Most of Asia, Europe, and North America will not witness this particular annular eclipse. Because Antarctica has limited population and mainly scientific research stations, only a small number of people will see the ring of fire directly.
Why does the ring of fire happen?
The ring of fire effect during Annular Solar Eclipse February 17 happens because of the Moon’s elliptical orbit. The Moon does not travel around Earth in a perfect circle. Sometimes it is closer, and sometimes it is farther away.
When the Moon is farther from Earth, it looks slightly smaller in the sky. If a solar eclipse occurs at that time, the Moon cannot fully block the Sun. Instead of total darkness, a bright ring of sunlight appears around the Moon’s dark silhouette.
This unique alignment creates one of the most beautiful sky events. However, since the Sun is still partially visible, proper eclipse glasses are always required for safe viewing.
When is the next eclipse?
If you are disappointed about missing Annular Solar Eclipse February 17, there is good news. Eclipses often come in pairs. About two weeks after this solar eclipse, a total lunar eclipse is expected and will be visible across North America.
The next annular solar eclipse is scheduled for February 2027. That event will reportedly be visible from Chile, Argentina, Uruguay, Brazil, Cote d’Ivoire, Ghana, Togo, Benin, and Nigeria.
Looking further ahead, another annular eclipse is expected in 2028. It may be visible from the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador, Peru, Brazil, Suriname, French Guiana, Morocco, and Spain. In January 2030, countries such as Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, Greece, Turkey, Russia, Kazakhstan, China, and Japan are expected to witness another annular event.
If you are specifically tracking the next solar eclipse visible in India, you will need to follow official astronomical updates for future confirmed paths.
Safety tips for watching a solar eclipse
Even though Annular Solar Eclipse February 17 will not be visible in India, understanding safety rules is important for future events.
Always use certified solar eclipse glasses
Do not look directly at the Sun with naked eyes
Do not use regular sunglasses
Use proper solar filters for cameras and telescopes
Eye safety is critical because even a small visible part of the Sun can cause serious eye damage.
FAQs
1. What is Annular Solar Eclipse February 17?
It is a solar eclipse occurring on February 17, 2026, where the Moon creates a ring of fire effect around the Sun.
2. Will Annular Solar Eclipse February 17 be visible in India?
No, the eclipse will not be visible anywhere in India.
3. What time will the eclipse start in India?
It will begin at 12:31 PM IST, but it will not be visible from India.
4. Where will the ring of fire be visible?
The main visibility will be in Antarctica, with partial views in parts of Argentina and South Africa.
5. When is the next annular solar eclipse after February 17, 2026?
The next annular solar eclipse is expected in February 2027 and will be visible in parts of South America and Africa.