This solar eclipse is significant not just for its duration but also because it exceeds all eclipses occurring between 1991 and 2114. Typically, a solar eclipse lasts about three minutes—this one will be more than double that time.

But why should we care? Solar eclipses offer unique opportunities for scientific observation. Astronomers can study the sun’s corona, which is usually obscured by its bright light. The extended duration allows for more detailed observations than shorter eclipses.

Key facts about the upcoming solar eclipse:

• The eclipse begins in Southern Spain and Morocco.
• The longest visibility of the eclipse will occur in Egypt.
• This event is one of six major solar eclipses expected in this century.

The path of totality—the area where viewers can experience complete darkness—will span several countries: Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, and Yemen. Each location offers a unique perspective of this celestial phenomenon.

The lunar eclipse on March 3, 2026, will coincide with the festival of Holi. This event marks the first lunar eclipse of the year in India. A lunar eclipse occurs when Earth positions itself between the Sun and the Moon, casting a shadow on the lunar surface. This particular eclipse will be a total lunar eclipse, during which the Moon may take on a copper-red hue, commonly referred to as a Blood Moon.

What to Expect

In various Indian cities, the eclipse will manifest as a rare “Grastodaya” event, where the Moon rises already in a state of eclipse. Instead of witnessing the beginning of the eclipse, observers will see the Moon emerge partially or fully obscured, creating a striking twilight display.

Lunar Eclipse March 2026: Phases and Timings

The eclipse will unfold through several phases on March 3, 2026:

• Penumbral begins: 2:14 PM
• Partial begins: 3:30 PM
• Totality begins: 4:58 PM
• Maximum eclipse: 5:25 PM
• Totality ends: 5:32 PM
• Partial ends: 6:47 PM
• Penumbral ends: 7:53 PM

(Timings are based on astronomical data from NASA and timeanddate.com.)

Visibility Across India

Yes, the total lunar eclipse on March 3, 2026, will be visible across India, either partially or fully, depending on the location. Northeastern states will have the most spectacular views, as the Moon will rise already eclipsed, while other regions may only observe the later partial phases.

City-wise Visibility: Where to Watch

NORTHEAST INDIA: BEST VISIBILITY

• Guwahati: 5:45 PM – Total eclipse at rise
• Dibrugarh: 5:40 PM – Deep totality
• Itanagar: 5:35 PM – Total at moonrise
• Shillong: 5:44 PM – Blood Moon visible

Skywatchers in this region may witness a copper-red Moon shortly after it rises.

EASTERN INDIA

• Kolkata: 6 PM – Late total / partial
• Bhubaneswar: 6:05 PM – Partial
• Patna: 6:12 PM – Partial

DELHI, NORTH & CENTRAL INDIA

• New Delhi: 6:26 PM – Ending partial
• Jaipur: 6:28 PM – Partial
• Lucknow: 6:18 PM – Partial
• Bhopal: 6:24 PM – Partial

Totality may have concluded before moonrise in these areas.

WESTERN INDIA

• Mumbai: 6:30 PM – Late partial
• Ahmedabad: 6:35 PM – Brief partial
• Pune: 6:32 PM – Final phase

SOUTHERN INDIA

• Chennai: 6:15 PM – Partial
• Bengaluru: 6:28 PM – Partial
• Hyderabad: 6:22 PM – Partial
• Thiruvananthapuram: 6:23 PM – Partial

Understanding the Grastodaya Eclipse

Grastodaya refers to a lunar eclipse where the Moon rises already eclipsed. On March 3, many Indian cities will not witness the start of the eclipse, only the later stages as the Moon rises.

Cultural Significance of Holi and Sutak

As the eclipse coincides with Holi, it carries cultural significance. Some traditions may observe a Sutak period if the eclipse is visible locally. Practices vary by region and personal beliefs.

What Is a Lunar Eclipse?

A lunar eclipse occurs when Earth is positioned between the Sun and the Moon, casting a shadow on the Moon. During totality, the Moon can appear red due to atmospheric light scattering.

Why Does the Moon Turn Red?

During a total lunar eclipse, the Moon may take on a copper-red hue, known as a Blood Moon. This occurs due to atmospheric scattering, where Earth’s atmosphere filters out blue light and bends red wavelengths toward the Moon.

Types of Lunar Eclipses

• Total Lunar Eclipse: The Moon fully enters Earth’s umbra and may appear red.
• Partial Lunar Eclipse: Only part of the Moon enters the umbra, creating a dark “bite.”
• Penumbral Lunar Eclipse: The Moon passes through Earth’s outer shadow, causing subtle dimming.

Is It Safe to Watch?

Yes, lunar eclipses are completely safe to observe with the naked eye. No special glasses are required.

How to Watch the Lunar Eclipse

If clouds obstruct your view, live coverage will be available on:

• NASA
• timeanddate.com
• Space.com

Why This Eclipse Matters

This event is significant as it is the first lunar eclipse of 2026, coinciding with Holi. Northeastern India will have prime visibility, and it presents a unique opportunity for skywatchers, photographers, and festival participants alike. Mark your calendars and check your city’s moonrise time before heading outside.

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In 2026, two significant solar eclipses are set to occur, with the first being an annular solar eclipse on February 17, followed by a total solar eclipse on August 12. The annular eclipse will be visible in parts of Africa, South America, and the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, but will not be observable in India, as reported by various sources.

Why It Matters

The annular solar eclipse on February 17 will begin at 3:26 p.m. and reach its peak at 5:42 p.m. During this event, the Moon will not completely cover the Sun, creating a “ring of fire” effect, which lasts for 1 minute and 52 seconds at peak visibility. This eclipse coincides with Phalguna Amavasya, a day of spiritual significance for many devotees, who will observe rituals despite the eclipse being invisible in India.

What’s Next

Following the annular eclipse, a total solar eclipse will occur on August 12, 2026. This event is expected to be more widely visible and will provide an opportunity for skywatchers in India to witness a dramatic celestial phenomenon. As anticipation builds for these astronomical events, enthusiasts are encouraged to prepare and stay informed about viewing opportunities.

The post What We Know About Upcoming Solar Eclipses in 2026 appeared first on Newsduniya.

Today, a rare ring of fire solar eclipse is taking place, marking the first of four eclipses scheduled for this year. This unique phenomenon occurs when the Moon is at its farthest point from Earth, resulting in a visual effect where the Sun appears as a bright ring surrounding the Moon.

Why It Matters

A ring of fire solar eclipse is significant not only for its visual spectacle but also for its implications in astrology. Astrologers suggest that such eclipses herald new beginnings and transformative changes in life. The event is particularly noteworthy as it draws attention to the scientific and observational efforts being made in extreme environments, such as Antarctica, where researchers are preparing to study the eclipse under challenging conditions.

What’s Next

As the eclipse unfolds, viewers across various locations are encouraged to safely observe the event using proper eye protection. Following this eclipse, three more eclipses are expected throughout the year, providing additional opportunities for observation and study.

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A rare ring of fire solar eclipse is set to occur on February 17, marking the first of four eclipses in 2023. This phenomenon, known as an annular solar eclipse, happens when the Moon is at its farthest point from Earth, causing it to obscure the Sun partially and create a visual effect resembling a “ring of fire” around the Moon.

Why It Matters

Solar eclipses, particularly ring of fire eclipses, hold significant interest for both scientists and astrologers. Researchers in Antarctica, specifically at the Concordia and Mirny stations, are preparing to observe this event under extreme conditions. The Antarctic plateau offers a unique advantage for solar observations due to its thin, dry air, which minimizes atmospheric distortion. This makes it an ideal location for capturing precise solar data, despite the logistical challenges posed by sub-zero temperatures.

What’s Next

As the date approaches, teams will finalize preparations to ensure their sensitive solar telescopes remain operational in the harsh Antarctic climate. The eclipse is not only a scientific opportunity but also a moment of astrological significance, heralding new beginnings and changes, as interpreted by astrologers. Observers around the world are encouraged to prepare for this celestial event, which promises to be both visually stunning and scientifically valuable.

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