What time is the annular solar eclipse on Feb. 17? What skywatchers should know about solar eclipses
On Feb. 17 (ET) an annular solar eclipse — the dramatic "ring of fire" type — passed over a small portion of Antarctica. Observers along the central corridor saw the moon cover most of the sun, leaving a bright outer ring visible for a brief stretch at maximum eclipse. The event is now complete, but its narrow path and safety lessons remain important for future skywatchers.
Where the Feb. 17 annular eclipse occurred and how long it lasted
The annular phase on Feb. 17 was confined to a relatively tiny region of Antarctica. The corridor of annularity measured roughly 2, 661 miles long and about 383 miles wide (approximately 4, 282 by 616 kilometers). Within that strip the moon covered about 96% of the sun's disk at maximum, producing the classic ring of fire effect.
At the point of greatest eclipse, annularity lasted up to 2 minutes and 20 seconds. Outside the narrow path of annularity, viewers across other parts of Antarctica and broader areas of southern Africa and the southernmost portions of South America experienced a partial eclipse — the sun appeared partly obscured rather than forming a full ring.
Exact start, maximum and end times varied by location along the eclipse track; observers needed local timing for precise moments of first contact, annularity and final contact. Because the path lay mainly over polar regions, land-based viewing opportunities were extremely limited and largely restricted to specially equipped expeditions and research stations.
How to observe solar eclipses safely
Never look directly at the sun without proper protection. Whether you were in the narrow corridor of annularity or watching a partial eclipse from afar, the same rules applied: solar filters are essential at all times. Observers must wear certified solar eclipse glasses, and cameras, telescopes and binoculars must have solar filters fitted in front of their objective lenses when pointed at the sun.
Improvised filters, non-certified sunglasses or camera neutral-density filters that are not designed for direct solar viewing are not safe. For people using imaging equipment, the filter must sit on the front of the lens or telescope tube; placing filters behind the eyepiece is dangerous because concentrated sunlight can damage optics and enter the eye.
If you missed this annular event, use it as a reminder to prepare for future eclipses. Practice safe projection techniques, check certification on eclipse glasses, and ensure any optics you plan to use are equipped with purpose-built solar filters.
What’s next for skywatchers
Skywatchers interested in major upcoming eclipses can mark a few future dates. On March 3, 2026 a total lunar eclipse will turn the moon a deep red for observers across North America, Australia, New Zealand, East Asia and much of the Pacific. Later in the year, on Aug. 12, 2026 a total solar eclipse will cross parts of Greenland, Iceland and northern Spain, with a wider partial eclipse visible across much of Europe and Africa.
Those planning to chase future solar eclipses should research the eclipse path early, confirm safe viewing gear and, when possible, make logistical arrangements well in advance. The Feb. 17 annular event underscores how spectacular and fleeting these alignments are — and how critical preparation and eye safety remain.
