Surya Grahan/Solar Eclipse -17.2.2026


 


SuryaGrahan/SolarEclipse-17.2.2026

According to astronomical data, the Surya Grahan/Solar Eclipse 2026 is likely to begin at 09:56 GMT (3:26 PM IST) & conclude at 14:27 GMT (7:57 PM IST) on 17th February 2026.

Today on 17 February , 2026, the world witnesses its first major celestial event of the year: an Annular Solar Eclipse, often called the "Ring of Fire."


The "Ring of Fire" Returns – A Remote Spectacle

Penguins 1
Humans 0: The Most Remote Eclipse of 2026

​The first solar eclipse of 2026 is a rare annular eclipse. This occurs when the Moon is too far from Earth to completely cover the Sun, leaving a thin, brilliant outer edge of the solar disk visible. The result is a stunning "Ring of Fire" that looks like a cosmic wedding ring in the sky.

​Key Global Details:

​Path of Annularity: The full "ring" effect is extremely exclusive this year. The path of the shadow travels primarily over Antarctica and the Southern Ocean. It is likely that more penguins will see this eclipse than humans!

​Partial Visibility: While the "ring" is hard to reach, a partial eclipse is visible from parts of:

​Southern Africa (South Africa, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Mauritius).
​South America (Southern tips of Chile and Argentina).

Duration: At its peak, the annular phase will last for approximately 2 minutes and 20 seconds.

​Safety Note: If you are in a location where the eclipse is visible, never look at the Sun without ISO-certified eclipse glasses. Even a 96% obscured Sun can cause permanent eye damage.

Surya Grahan 2026 – The Indian Perspective

​Surya Grahan on Phalguna Amavasya: Timing, Sutak, and Beliefs

​In India, solar eclipses are viewed through a blend of astronomical curiosity and deep-rooted spiritual tradition. Today’s eclipse coincides with Phalguna Amavasya, a day traditionally dedicated to honoring ancestors (Pitru Puja).

​Will it be visible in India?

​No. The February 17, 2026, Surya Grahan is not visible in India. Because the eclipse occurs while the Sun is below the horizon for the Indian subcontinent, the shadow will not touch the region.

​ "Sutak Kaal"

​In Vedic tradition, the Sutak Kaal (a period of abstinence) usually begins 12 hours before a solar eclipse. However, because the eclipse is not visible in India:
​Sutak is not applicable: Religious scholars generally agree that if the Grahan is not visible, the Sutak rules do not apply.

​Temples: Most temples in India will remain open and follow their regular schedules.

​Astrological Impact
​Despite its lack of visibility, astrologers note that this eclipse occurs in the Aquarius (Kumbh) zodiac sign and the Dhanishta Nakshatra.


​Positive Signs: Aries, Cancer, Scorpio, and Sagittarius may see career growth or financial gains.
​Spiritual Practice: Even without visibility, many choose to use this time for meditation or chanting the Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra to harness the day's intense energy.
​Timing (IST) for Reference:

Phase Time (Indian Standard Time)

Eclipse Begins 3:26 PM
Maximum Phase 5:43 PM
Eclipse Ends 7:57 PM


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