The first solar eclipse of the year 2026 is going to occur on 17 February. This time there will be a chance to see the ‘Ring of Fire’ during the solar eclipse. It is a matter of relief for the people of India that it will not have any impact here. According to Indian time, this eclipse will start in the afternoon but it will not be visible in any part of India.

This eclipse is not visible in India, hence according to astrology, Sutak period will not be valid here. This means that the doors of temples across the country will remain open, worship will happen as usual and there will be no restrictions on daily activities.

Time and duration of eclipse

According to Indian time, this solar eclipse will start from noon and continue till evening. The eclipse will begin at 3:26 pm. It will be at its peak at 5:42 pm. At this time the ‘Ring of Fire’ will be visible. The eclipse will end at 7:57 pm. In this way this entire incident will last for approximately 4 hours 32 minutes.

What is ‘Ring of Fire’?

This time, such a situation is being created in the eclipse in which the Moon is not able to cover the Sun completely due to which the outer part of the Sun appears like a shining ring. This is why it has been named ‘Ring of Fire’. This situation is called ‘Annular Solar Eclipse’.

Where in the world will this view be seen?

Even though we may not be able to see it in India, it will be clearly visible in many parts of the world. This includes Antarctica and many areas of the Southern Ocean, African countries like South Africa, Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

What to do and what not to do?

Even though it does not have any effect in India, still it is better to keep some things in mind-

• Do not pay attention to rumors circulating on social media such as not cooking food or not drinking water as the eclipse is not visible in India.
• Pregnant women should not take any kind of stress, your routine can remain normal.
• If you want, you can chant mantras or meditate as per your devotion, it is good for mental peace.
• Where the eclipse is visible, looking at the Sun without glasses with solar filters can damage the eyes.

Today will pass like a normal day. If you want to watch this astronomical event, you can take the help of online live stream of science channels.