First Solar Eclipse of 2026 set to occur today, Pakistan will miss view

Observers in certain parts of Africa and South America will be able to witness a partial solar eclipse, while other regions, including the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans, will also experience partial phases

KARACHI: (UrduPoint/UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News-Feb 17th, 2026) The first solar eclipse of 2026 is scheduled to take place today, captivating astronomers and skywatchers around the world.

Pakistan Meteorological Department, however, said that the celestial event will not be visible in Pakistan.

Observers in certain parts of Africa and South America will be able to witness a partial solar eclipse, while other regions, including the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans, will also experience partial phases. The much-anticipated “Ring of Fire” phenomenon, a rare annular solar eclipse in which the Moon appears slightly smaller than the Sun and leaves a fiery ring, will be visible exclusively from Antarctica.

The Meteorological Department has provided the official timings of the eclipse for global reference. In Pakistan Standard Time, the eclipse will begin at 2:56pm, reach its maximum at 5:12pm, and conclude at 7:28 PM.

Though the event will not be observable in the country, officials encourage astronomy enthusiasts and students to follow live streams and satellite imagery to experience the eclipse virtually.

The solar eclipse marks the first of two solar and two lunar eclipses expected globally in 2026.

The experts say such astronomical events are not only visually striking but also important for scientific study, as they allow astronomers to analyze the Sun’s corona, solar flares, and other solar phenomena.

Skywatchers in countries where the eclipse is visible are advised to take safety precautions, such as using certified eclipse glasses or solar filters, to avoid eye damage while observing the Sun.

The event has generated widespread interest on social media, with users sharing eclipse schedules, viewing tips and scientific explanations of the phenomenon.

While Pakistan will miss the live sight, the astronomy enthusiasts in the country remain keen to follow the event through online feeds and global news coverage.

The solar eclipse serves as a reminder of the intricate dance between the Earth, Moon and Sun, highlighting the beauty and complexity of our solar system and offering a rare opportunity for people worldwide to witness one of nature’s most spectacular shows.