LAHORE (Dunya News) – Astronomers have confirmed that the first solar eclipse of the year will occur on February 17, but it will not be visible in Pakistan or most parts of Asia.
Experts said the eclipse will be an annular solar eclipse, during which the moon will pass directly in front of the sun. As the moon will be farther from Earth at the time, it will not fully cover the sun, creating a bright ring known as the “ring of fire.”
According to astronomical institutions, the eclipse will reach its maximum at around 12:12 UTC, while the overall process will last from 09:56 to 14:27 UTC.
The full ring-of-fire view will only be visible in remote areas of Antarctica, while southern Africa, parts of South America, and some ocean regions may witness a partial eclipse.
Scientists said the moon will cover about 96 percent of the sun, with the peak view lasting nearly two minutes. Viewers worldwide will be able to watch the event via live streams.
Experts warned that looking directly at the sun without special protective glasses can seriously harm eyesight.