When is the first solar eclipse of 2026 and where will it be seen?

The first solar eclipse of 2026 will take place on February 17 and is being called a “Ring of Fire” eclipse, according to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD).

Officials confirmed that the eclipse will not be visible in Pakistan. The annular eclipse, also known as the Ring of Fire, will be seen only in Antarctica, while partial views may be visible in parts of Africa and South America.

A partial eclipse will also be seen over parts of the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans.

According to Pakistani time, the eclipse will:

• Begin: 2:56 pm

• Reach maximum: 5:12 pm

• End: 7:28 pm

Meteorologists also noted that four eclipses will occur in 2026, including two solar eclipses and two lunar eclipses.

Astronomers have highlighted that the longest solar eclipse of the century is expected in 2027, which is likely to attract global scientific and public attention.

Although this eclipse will not be visible in Pakistan, authorities advise the public to rely on official scientific sources for accurate information on celestial events.