First Solar Eclipse of 2026 on February 17: “Ring of Fire” Visible Only in Remote Regions

The **first solar eclipse of 2026** is set to occur on **February 17**, but it will **not be visible in Pakistan** or most parts of Asia.

According to astronomers, during this eclipse, the **Moon will pass directly in front of the Sun**, but since the Moon will be relatively far from Earth at that time, it will **not completely cover the Sun**. Instead, a **ring of fire**—a bright ring around the Sun—will be visible.

### Timing of the Eclipse

* The eclipse will reach its **maximum** at around **12:12 UTC**.
* The entire event will last from **09:56 UTC to 14:27 UTC**.

### Where It Will Be Visible

* The **full “Ring of Fire”** can only be seen in **remote regions of Antarctica**.
* Partial solar eclipses will be visible in parts of **South Africa, South America, and some oceanic regions**.
* During the peak, the Moon will cover approximately **96% of the Sun**, and the full ring effect will last for **about two minutes**.

### Viewing Safety

While the eclipse will **not be visible in Pakistan, India, and most of Asia**, it can be **watched online via live streams**. Experts warn that **special protective glasses** are essential when observing a solar eclipse, as looking directly at the Sun can cause serious **eye damage**.

This astronomical event offers a rare spectacle for observers in select regions and online audiences worldwide.