An annular solar eclipse is set to occur on February 17, transforming the sun into a stunning “ring of fire.” During this celestial event, the moon will pass between Earth and the sun, leaving a narrow ring of sunlight visible.
Details of the Annular Solar Eclipse
The eclipse will unfold in a series of stages:
- Partial eclipse begins at 4:56 a.m. EST (09:56 GMT)
- Maximum annularity occurs at 7:12 a.m. EST (12:12 GMT)
- Partial eclipse concludes at 9:27 a.m. EST (14:27 GMT)
Path of Annularity
Annularity will be visible in a limited region of Antarctica, covering a corridor approximately 2,661 miles (4,282 km) long and 383 miles (616 km) wide. In this area, the moon will obscure about 96% of the sun’s disk. Observers in other parts of Antarctica, as well as regions in southern Africa and southernmost South America, will experience a partial solar eclipse instead.
Understanding Annular Solar Eclipses
An annular solar eclipse occurs when the moon, positioned between Earth and the sun, appears smaller from our viewpoint and does not fully cover the sun’s disk. This phenomenon creates the characteristic “ring of fire” effect at the peak of the eclipse.
Safety Guidelines for Viewing
It is essential to remember to never look directly at the sun. To view the eclipse safely:
- Use solar filters at all times.
- Wear solar eclipse glasses when observing.
- Ensure cameras, telescopes, and binoculars have solar filters in front of their lenses.
For more details on safe solar observation, refer to our guide on how to observe the sun safely. Stay informed on the eclipse by following our solar eclipse live blog.
Upcoming Solar Eclipses
After the annular solar eclipse on February 17, the next solar event will be a total solar eclipse on August 12, 2026. This total eclipse will be visible from parts of Greenland, Iceland, and northern Spain, with partial visibility in broader regions of Europe and Africa.
If you cannot wait for the next solar eclipse, a total lunar eclipse will occur on March 3, 2026, casting the moon in a striking blood red, visible to skywatchers in North America, Australia, New Zealand, East Asia, and the Pacific.
