The first solar eclipse of the year is set to take place on February 17, producing a striking “Ring of Fire” effect as the Moon moves in front of the Sun but does not completely cover it.
Also known as an annular solar eclipse, this phenomenon occurs when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun while positioned at its farthest point from Earth. At that distance, the Moon appears slightly smaller in the sky and cannot fully block the Sun’s disk. As a result, a bright ring of sunlight remains visible around the Moon’s edges.
At the peak of the eclipse, the Moon is expected to cover nearly 96 percent of the Sun. The most dramatic phase, when the ring is clearly visible, will last for up to two minutes.
According to the timetable, the eclipse will begin at 12:01 p.m. Pakistan Standard Time on February 17. However, the full “Ring of Fire” effect will only be visible in Antarctica. Observers in Chile, Argentina, and parts of South Africa will witness a partial eclipse.
The event will not be visible across most of Asia, including Pakistan. Those interested can follow the eclipse through live streaming platforms such as the Time and Date website.
Astronomers have stressed that solar eclipses should never be viewed with the naked eye. Watching without certified solar viewing glasses or proper protective equipment can result in serious and permanent eye damage.
