Annular Solar Eclipse Occurs Over Antarctica, Visible as Partial Eclipse in Southern Regions

An annular solar eclipse occurred on February 17, 2026, primarily visible over Antarctica. During this event, the Moon passed directly between Earth and the Sun but appeared smaller, leaving a bright ring, or "ring of fire," around its silhouette.

The path of annularity spanned approximately 2,661 miles (4,282 kilometers) in length and 383 miles (616 kilometers) in width, crossing remote regions of Antarctica. Due to the eclipse's path primarily covering isolated Antarctic terrain, very few people witnessed it. Only two Antarctic research stations—Mirny (Russian-operated) and Concordia (French/Italian-operated)—were located within the annular eclipse zone, and only a small number of scientists and inhabitants were expected to see the eclipse.

Partial phases of the eclipse were observable in parts of southern South America, including the southern tip of Argentina and Chile, as well as in southeastern Africa, encompassing countries like Mozambique, Madagascar, and Mauritius.

The eclipse began at 09:56 UTC and concluded at 14:27 UTC, with the annular phase occurring between 11:42 UTC and 12:41 UTC.

This event was part of an eclipse season, a period when solar and lunar eclipses occur in close succession. A total lunar eclipse is expected to follow on March 3, 2026.

Observers were advised to use proper eye protection, such as ISO 12312-2-rated eclipse glasses, to safely view the eclipse.