First Solar Eclipse of 2026: Where and When to Watch Daytime darkness?

2026-02-13 - 16:56

ISLAMABAD – Skygzers are excited to witness nature’s next dramatic show this month. Astronomers announced spectacular celestial event, the first solar eclipse of the year, this February 17, 2026. There’s a twist, as this breathtaking phenomenon will not be visible in Pakistan or most of Asia. Instead, the dramatic display will unfold in the remote reaches of Antarctica, promising a show like no other. During the eclipse, the Sun will resemble a blazing ball of fire, and this magical moment occurs when the Moon passes directly in front of the Sun along its elliptical orbit. Since the Moon cannot fully cover the Sun, sunlight will peek around its edges, giving the Sun a reddish glow while the Moon’s shadow spreads across its surface. The Sun, in turn, will appear almost like a giant, luminous Moon in the sky. Solar Eclipse 2026 But the spectacle does not stop there! In the next phase, a dazzling “ring of fire” will emerge when the Moon aligns perfectly with the Sun. The sky will darken slightly, and the Sun’s outer edge will glow like a golden halo, a sight visible across various parts of Antarctica. This mesmerizing display will last about two hours before the golden ring gradually fades away. As eclipse advances, the Moon will slowly drift away from the Sun, marking final stage when the Sun is fully revealed again. Experts caution that looking directly at the eclipse is extremely dangerous, so anyone attempting to witness this cosmic spectacle must use special eclipse glasses or a solar filter. Just two weeks later, on March 3, the Moon will appear reddish in the sky, creating the year’s first blood moon. This stunning sight will be visible in North America, East Asia, and Australia, promising another unforgettable experience for skywatchers worldwide. Solar, lunar eclipses schedule 2026 revealed – Date, Time and Locations