Dhaka, Feb 16 (V7N) — The first annular solar eclipse of 2026 will occur in the world’s skies on Tuesday (February 17), according to a press release issued by Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) on February 15.

The statement said the eclipse will begin at 5:56:36 PM Bangladesh time and conclude at 8:27:36 PM.

However, the phenomenon will not be visible from Bangladesh, as it will take place during evening and nighttime hours locally. Instead, it will be directly observable from parts of Argentina, Chile, South Africa, and regions of Antarctic continent.

What is an Annular Solar Eclipse?

An annular solar eclipse occurs when the Moon is farther from Earth in its orbit and appears smaller than usual. Because of this, it cannot completely cover the Sun. The remaining outer edge of sunlight forms a bright ring — often called the “ring of fire” — surrounding the dark center.

Like a total solar eclipse, an annular eclipse follows a specific shadow path across Earth, and only areas within this path can witness the full ring effect.

END/SMA/AJ