Solar Eclipse 2026 will occur on February 17, 2026. This astronomical event will be an annular solar eclipse, also known as a “Ring of Fire” eclipse. During this type of eclipse, the Moon does not completely cover the Sun, leaving a bright ring visible around it.
Solar eclipse date and time (Indian Standard Time)
According to Drik Panchang,
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date: 17 February 2026
Eclipse start time: 3:26 pm
Exact time: around 5:40 pm
Eclipse end time: 7:57 pm
total duration: about 4 hours 31 minutes
Even though the eclipse will not be visible in India, these times are calculated as per Indian Standard Time.
Will solar eclipse 2026 be visible in India?
No, the annular solar eclipse of 17 February 2026 will not be visible in India.
Sky watchers and astronomy lovers in India may be disappointed, as this astronomical phenomenon cannot be seen directly from the country. People can follow live updates and streams on scientific websites like NASA to watch the eclipse.
Countries where annular solar eclipse will be visible
The annular solar eclipse 2026 will be visible in many parts of the world, including:
South Africa
zimbabwe
botswana
namibia
mauritius
tanzania
argentina
Antarctica
southern part of south america
What is annular solar eclipse?
An annular solar eclipse occurs when the Moon is far from Earth and appears smaller than the Sun. As a result, it covers only the central part of the Sun, but the edges are not visible. This creates a bright circular ring in the sky, often called the “Ring of Fire”.
Sutak period during solar eclipse 2026
Sutak period is considered an inauspicious period in Hindu beliefs and it usually starts 12 hours before the solar eclipse.
Sutak period in India: Not applicable
Since Solar Eclipse 2026 will not be visible in India, no Sutak period will be observed in the country.
Worship method during solar eclipse 2026
According to the Drik Panchang, regular temple worship and daily worship are generally stopped during a solar eclipse. Instead, devotees focus on spiritual activities.
Common practices during a solar eclipse include:
chant sun mantras
meditation and silent prayer
reciting sacred texts
Perform puja after the eclipse ends
Take bath for purification after eclipse
Do’s and Don’ts during Solar Eclipse 2026
According to the Drik Panchang, the following guidelines are generally followed during a solar eclipse:
What to do?
chant or meditate
take bath after eclipse ends
Pray after the eclipse is over
what not to do
Avoid starting new or auspicious work
Do not touch the idols of Gods and Goddesses during eclipse
Avoid cooking or eating during eclipse period
Pregnant women, children and the elderly are advised to stay indoors
These beliefs may vary according to region and family traditions.
Solar Eclipse 2026 on February 17 will be a stunning annular solar eclipse, but unfortunately, it will not be visible in India. As a result, Sutak period will not apply to Indian residents. While astronomy enthusiasts can follow the event online, devotees can continue their regular routine without any worries, keeping faith and tradition in mind.
(This article is for your general information only. Zee News does not confirm its accuracy or reliability.)