Eclipse Timing (IST)
Total duration: 7 hours 13 minutes (globally)
What is an Annular Solar Eclipse?
An annular eclipse occurs when the Moon is too far from Earth to completely cover the Sun. This creates a "ring of fire" effect where the Sun's outer edge remains visible around the Moon. The February 17, 2026 eclipse will have a maximum annularity of 2 minutes 20 seconds.
Visibility in India
Not Visible in India
This solar eclipse will NOT be visible from any part of India. The eclipse path passes through Antarctica, southern South America, and the Atlantic Ocean reaching western Africa.
| City | Visibility | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi | Not Visible | Sun will be normal all day |
| Mumbai | Not Visible | No eclipse effect |
| Chennai | Not Visible | No eclipse effect |
| Kolkata | Not Visible | No eclipse effect |
| Bangalore | Not Visible | No eclipse effect |
| Hyderabad | Not Visible | No eclipse effect |
| Ahmedabad | Not Visible | No eclipse effect |
| Jaipur | Not Visible | No eclipse effect |
Visible Regions: Antarctica (best visibility), southern Chile, Argentina, Atlantic Ocean, Gabon, Congo, and nearby African countries.
Sutak Period
Sutak Timing (Optional for India)
Since this eclipse is not visible in India, sutak observance is optional. However, traditionalist families may choose to observe:
Note: Solar eclipse sutak traditionally starts 12 hours before maximum eclipse. Since not visible in India, many pandits advise sutak is not required.
Astrological Significance
Sun Position
Sun will be in Aquarius (Kumbh Rashi) during this eclipse. Effects primarily on Aquarius and Leo moon signs.
Nakshatra
Eclipse occurs in Shatabhisha Nakshatra. Those with Moon in this nakshatra should take extra precautions.
Rahu-Ketu Axis
Eclipse on Rahu-Ketu axis in Aquarius-Leo. Career and relationship matters may be affected.
Duration Impact
Effects can be felt up to 6 months before and after the eclipse date.
Mantras to Chant
Surya Gayatri Mantra (Recommended 108 times)
"Om Adityaya Vidmahe Sahasra Kiranaya Dhimahi Tanno Surya Prachodayat"
ॐ आदित्याय विद्महे सहस्र किरणाय धीमहि तन्नो सूर्य प्रचोदयात्
Rahu Mantra (To reduce negative effects)
"Om Raam Rahave Namah"
Mahamrityunjaya Mantra (For protection)
"Om Tryambakam Yajamahe Sugandhim Pushtivardhanam Urvarukamiva Bandhanan Mrityor Mukshiya Maamritat"
Precautions During Solar Eclipse
Pregnant Women
- Stay indoors during eclipse hours
- Do not look at the sky
- Avoid using scissors, needles, knives
- Chant Santana Gopala mantra
Food Precautions
- Do not cook during eclipse
- Add tulsi leaves to stored food/water
- Consume only dry foods if necessary
- Take bath and discard old food after eclipse
Effects by Zodiac Sign
The February eclipse in Aquarius will affect each moon sign differently:
What to Do After Eclipse
Ritual Bath
Take a bath after eclipse ends. Add Gangajal or tulsi to water for purification.
Donate
Donate black sesame, wheat, clothes, or money to Brahmins or the needy.
Sprinkle Gangajal
Sprinkle holy water in home and on stored items for purification.
Temple Visit
Visit temple and offer prayers to your ishta devta after the eclipse.
Get Personalized Eclipse Analysis
Know exactly how this Surya Grahan will affect your birth chart