February 3, 2026 | 10:49 am
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - An annular solar eclipse, also known as a "ring of fire," is a spectacular celestial phenomenon when the Moon moves in front of the Sun but doesn't completely obscure it, creating a stunning ring of fire.
This annular solar eclipse is especially special because it coincides with Chinese New Year celebrations and will occur on February 17, 2026, making it one of the most anticipated celestial events of the year. This phenomenon will be visible from Antarctica as the main path, while much of the southern region, such as southern Africa and the tip of South America, will experience a partial eclipse, including parts of the southern Indian Ocean, although not in the shape of a perfect ring.
Why Can't This Phenomenon Be Visible Directly in Indonesia?
Unfortunately, Indonesia is not within the direct visibility path for this year's annular solar eclipse. Astronomy activist from the Langit Selatan Bandung Community, Avivah Yamani, stated that there will be an annular solar eclipse, but this phenomenon will not be visible from Indonesia.
This is because the annular path (the path where the rings are completely visible) only crosses very remote areas in the Southern Hemisphere, particularly Antarctica and its surroundings. Therefore, Indonesians can only witness this phenomenon from afar through live online broadcasts from NASA and science media coverage.
However, the series of light changes in the sky, such as the gradual change in shape of the Sun's disk during a partial eclipse, can still be a fascinating spectacle if followed via video streaming or real-time photo reports.
How to Watch From a Distance
Because direct observation areas are very limited, you can still enjoy this eclipse by:
- Live streaming from international astronomical institutions, which usually broadcast the eclipse phases in real time from nearby locations.
- Video and photo media coverage, including highlights of the annular solar eclipse (ring of fire).
- A series of visual explanations, such as animations of the eclipse phases published by astronomy websites.
Although it won't be possible to see it directly with the naked eye in Indonesia this year, the annular solar eclipse on February 17, 2026, remains a celestial phenomenon worth following, both for the knowledge and the stunning visual experience.
However, if you have the opportunity to witness it in person, viewing it should not be done carelessly.
Why Shouldn't You View an Eclipse Directly Without Protection?
The sun emits very intense light, particularly ultraviolet (UV) and infrared (IR) rays, which cannot be seen but can damage the eyes. Looking directly at the sun, even for a few seconds during a partial or annular eclipse, can cause permanent retinal damage, damage that is often not noticed when it occurs.
So, how can you safely enjoy an annular solar eclipse?
The easiest and most effective way to view the eclipse directly is to wear eclipse glasses or solar viewing glasses. These devices are equipped with filters that are thousands of times darker than ordinary sunglasses, protecting your eyes from harmful light.
You can also do this using a projection technique. According to NASA, if you don't have eclipse glasses, this method can be a very safe alternative, even for children.
This simple method can be made at home:
1. Take a small piece of cardboard or cardboard.
2. Make a small hole (about 3–5 mm) in one side.
3. Let sunlight enter through the hole and project it onto the white surface behind it. You'll see a reduced shape of the Sun, corresponding to the eclipse phase.
This is a safe method because you're not looking directly at the Sun, only seeing its shadow or light projection.
Watching an annular solar eclipse can be an extraordinary experience, but eye safety remains paramount. Avoid regular sunglasses and never look directly at the Sun without proper protection.
Although it's currently impossible to see directly from Indonesia, this event is still noteworthy because it occurs during the Chinese New Year holiday. With the right preparation, an annular solar eclipse is not only safe to view but also a beautiful moment to remember for a lifetime. Enjoy watching the annular solar eclipse!
ANWAR SISWADI | NASA | SPACE.COM
Read: February 2026 Skywatch: Solar Eclipse, Full Moon, and Planets
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