On February 17, 2026, the first solar eclipse of the year occurred, creating a mesmerizing “ring of fire” effect in the sky. While the full eclipse was only visible to those in Antarctica or near its coast, the European Space Agency (ESA) captured stunning images of the event using its PROBA-2 satellite.
PROBA-2, a small satellite equipped with instruments to observe the sun and study space weather, orbited the Earth and captured the eclipse multiple times. The images revealed a perfect ring of fire, showcasing the moon appearing slightly smaller than the sun, creating the halo effect characteristic of an annular eclipse.
From the vantage point of Concordia Station in Antarctica, the ring of fire was visible for approximately two minutes. The next eclipse scheduled for 2026 is a total lunar eclipse on March 3 UTC, where Earth will cast a shadow on the moon, giving it a red hue known as a “blood moon.” This eclipse will be partially or fully visible from Asia, Australia, the Pacific Islands, and the Americas.
As science enthusiasts continue to marvel at celestial events like solar eclipses, supporting science journalism becomes increasingly important. Subscribing to publications like Scientific American ensures the dissemination of impactful stories about discoveries and ideas shaping our world today. By supporting science journalism, readers contribute to the future of meaningful research and discovery, and help recognize the value of science in today’s society.
The images captured by ESA’s PROBA-2 satellite serve as a reminder of the beauty and wonder of the cosmos, inspiring awe and curiosity in viewers around the world. As we look forward to future astronomical events, let’s continue to stand up for science and support the important work of science journalists and researchers.
