The world witnesses an annular eclipse of fire on the same day as the sighting of the crescent moon of Ramadan.

Astronomers and astronomy enthusiasts around the world are eagerly anticipating the solar eclipse scheduled for February 17, 2026, which is considered one of the most significant astronomical events of the year due to its scientific importance and rare visual spectacle. It's worth noting that this eclipse coincides with another solar eclipse expected in August of the same year, making 2026 an exceptional year in terms of astronomical phenomena.

The eclipse of February 17 is classified as an annular solar eclipse, known as the ring of fire phenomenon, where the moon appears slightly smaller than the sun's disk during the peak of the event, resulting in a bright edge remaining around the moon in a unique, glowing circular scene.

Astronomical calculations indicate that the eclipse will begin with a partial phase at 11:56 AM Cairo time, then enter the annular phase from 11:42 to 12:41 PM, with the peak of the eclipse at 12:12 PM, and the event will end completely at 2:27 PM.

As for viewing locations, the eclipse will be partially visible in parts of southern Africa, the far south of South America, and large parts of Antarctica, while viewing the total annular eclipse will be limited to specific and remote areas in Antarctica and the Southern Ocean.

In a related context, the world will witness a total solar eclipse on August 12, 2026. The partial phase will begin at 15:34 UTC, followed by the total phase from 16:58 to 18:34, with the peak at 17:46, and the eclipse will end at 19:57.

A solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the Earth and the sun, partially or completely blocking the sun's rays for a short period of time. It is a rare astronomical phenomenon that attracts the attention of scientists and amateurs. The "ring of fire" phenomenon is characterized by the moon covering the center of the sun's disk, while the outer edge remains illuminated, making the sun appear as a glowing ring surrounding the moon's shadow, in a unique and eye-catching visual scene.

Source: Sada Elbalad.