Gangtok, Feb. 16 -- The first major celestial event of 2026, Surya Grahan (solar eclipse), will occur on Tuesday, February 17, 2026. This event will create a remarkable annular eclipse, also referred to as a "Ring of Fire" effect, where the Moon covers most of the Sun's disk while leaving a glowing ring around it.

According to astronomical calculations, the eclipse will start at 3:26 PM IST and last until 7:57 PM IST. It will last about 4 hours and 31 minutes, with its peak phase occurring between 5:13 PM and 6:11 PM.

Although this event is significant, it will not be visible in India. The eclipse path will cover parts of southern Africa, South America, and Antarctica due to Earth's rotation and the position of the shadow.

In Hindu tra...