Annular Solar Eclipse, Dubbed 'Ring of Fire,' Set to Occur on Tuesday

Kathmandu. The first astronomical event of 2026, an annular solar eclipse, is set to occur on Tuesday. Scientists have named this event the 'Ring of Fire.'

This is called the Ring of Fire because when the Moon passes between the Sun and the Earth while being farther away from Earth, the central part of the Sun is covered, and a bright ring is visible around the edges. However, only about 2 percent of the world's total population will be able to witness this rare sight directly.

According to NASA scientist Dr. C. Alex Young, a bright ring-like shape appears when the Moon does not completely cover the Sun. This special view will only be clearly visible from a small region of Antarctica.

In addition, a partial solar eclipse can be observed from parts of Argentina and Chile in South America, and some parts of South Africa. Starting at 6:48 PM local time at Concordia Station in Antarctica, this eclipse will last for about two hours.

According to astronomers, solar and lunar eclipses always come in pairs. About two weeks after this solar eclipse, on March 3, a total lunar eclipse will occur. Although this Ring of Fire will not be visible in the United States and many other countries, people will be able to watch its live broadcast through various media.

Such an annular solar eclipse will next be visible in February 2027, which is reported to be visible from many places in South America and Africa.