The first solar eclipse of 2026 is set to occur on February 17, presenting a stunning Ring of Fire phenomenon. However, observers in Pakistan will not be able to witness the event as it will be visible only in Antarctica, with partial views in parts of South America and South Africa.

Dubbed the Ring of Fire, or annular solar eclipse, this occurs when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun while being at its farthest distance from Earth. Because the Moon is farther away, it cannot completely cover the Sun, leaving a bright outer ring visible from specific locations.

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Timing and Visibility

According to astronomers, the eclipse will begin at 12:01 PM Pakistan Standard Time on February 17, but the full annular eclipse will be confined to Antarctica. Partial eclipses will be visible in select regions of Chile, Argentina, and South Africa, while most of the world, including Pakistan, will miss the live spectacle.

For those eager to witness the event, online live streams, such as the one provided by Time and Date, will allow viewers in Pakistan and other regions to watch the Ring of Fire eclipse live.

Why the Ring of Fire Occurs

A Ring of Fire solar eclipse happens due to the Moon being at its farthest point from Earth (apogee) during the eclipse. This distance prevents it from fully blocking the Sun, creating the iconic fiery ring effect in the sky that astronomers and eclipse enthusiasts admire worldwide.

While Pakistan will not experience the eclipse firsthand, science enthusiasts and astronomy fans can still join global live streams to witness this rare celestial phenomenon.