What to expect during the solar eclipse 2026: a 'ring of fire' annular eclipse on Feb. 17
Overview
An annular solar eclipse will occur on Feb. 17, 2026, producing a striking "ring of fire" effect when the moon passes between Earth and the sun but does not completely cover the solar disk. At maximum annularity the moon will leave a bright outer ring of sunlight visible. published reports, the longest duration of annularity along the central path will be about 2 minutes and 20 seconds.
Path and visibility
The corridor of annularity is narrow and remote. Only a very small region of Antarctica lies in the path where observers will see the full annular effect. That corridor is described as roughly 2, 661 miles (4, 282 kilometers) long and about 383 miles (616 kilometers) wide. Observers elsewhere in Antarctica, and in portions of southern Africa and the southernmost parts of South America, will see a partial solar eclipse rather than the full ring.
Partial eclipses will still produce a noticeable dimming of the sun for viewers outside the path of annularity, but the characteristic ring will be visible only to those within the narrow corridor. Local timing of the eclipse phases will vary by location; published timelines give the sequence of partial, annular (for those inside the path), and partial phases for affected regions.
Safety and recommended viewing
Never look directly at the sun without proper protection. Whether you expect to see a partial or an annular eclipse, the same eye-safety rules apply: use certified solar eclipse glasses or solar filters rated for direct solar viewing for all visual observation. Cameras, binoculars and telescopes must be fitted with appropriate solar filters placed in front of the optics at all times. Observers who plan to photograph or telescope the event should ensure filters are securely attached to lenses; improvised methods are unsafe.
Brief glimpses of the sun without protection can cause permanent eye injury. Public information and safety guides circulated by astronomy outlets emphasize that even during maximum annularity, the uncovered portion of the sun remains intensely bright and dangerous to view unaided.
Astronomical context and nearby events
An annular eclipse occurs when the moon is near apogee — its more distant point from Earth — so its apparent size is smaller than the sun's apparent size and it cannot fully obscure the solar disk. The Feb. 17 event is followed by other notable celestial events in 2026. A total solar eclipse is scheduled for Aug. 12, 2026, and will be visible along a path that crosses parts of Greenland, Iceland and northern Spain, with a wider partial eclipse visible across parts of Europe and Africa. Additionally, a total lunar eclipse is expected on March 3, 2026, observable from North America, Australia, New Zealand, East Asia and the Pacific, which will turn the moon a deep red for many viewers.
Cultural and astrological notes
Beyond its physical description, the Feb. 17 eclipse has garnered attention in broader cultural and astrological coverage. Some astrologers described the eclipse as significant for its timing in relation to astrological signs and calendar events, noting overlaps with the new moon in Aquarius and the Chinese New Year. Such interpretations are a part of public interest reporting and reflect belief systems rather than empirical science. News coverage typically distinguishes between astronomical facts — the eclipse geometry, timing and visibility — and interpretive commentary from cultural or astrological perspectives.
Planning and travel considerations
Because the annular path crosses remote Antarctic terrain, viewing the ring of fire will be logistically challenging for most travelers. Prospective observers should consider the difficulties of Antarctic travel, including extreme weather, limited infrastructure and seasonal constraints. Many viewers will instead plan to observe a partial eclipse from more accessible locations in southern Africa or South America, or follow live streams provided by observatories and space news outlets.
For up-to-date schedules and local contact times, consult reputable astronomy resources and local observatories well in advance of the event. Preparedness, safe equipment and reliable timing are key to a successful and secure viewing experience.
