The first solar eclipse of the year will take place on February 17, and it will be an annular solar eclipse, commonly known as the “Ring of Fire.” During this celestial event, the Moon will pass directly in front of the Sun but will not completely cover it, creating a bright ring-like appearance.
Astronomers explain that this happens because the Moon will be relatively farther from Earth at that time, making it appear slightly smaller than the Sun.
Eclipse Timings
According to astronomical data:
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The eclipse will begin at 09:56 UTC
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Maximum phase will occur around 12:12 UTC
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The event will end at 14:27 UTC
The dramatic “Ring of Fire” effect will last for around two minutes at its peak.
Where Will It Be Visible?
The full annular phase will mainly be visible in remote parts of Antarctica. Partial eclipse views will be possible in parts of southern Africa, South America, and nearby ocean regions.
However, the eclipse will not be visible in Pakistan, India, or most of Asia. People in these regions can still watch the event through online live streams.
Safety Warning
Experts strongly advise using certified solar viewing glasses while observing an eclipse. Looking directly at the Sun without protection can cause serious eye damage.
Why This Eclipse Is Special
Annular eclipses are less common than partial eclipses and attract global interest because of their stunning ring-shaped visual effect. Astronomy enthusiasts worldwide are eagerly waiting for this event.
