Why Is the Sun Turning into a Halo Over Antarctica?
News Desk
Islamabad: A rare annular solar eclipse will cast a dramatic “ring of fire” over a remote stretch of Antarctica on February 17, offering a striking celestial display in one of the world’s least populated regions.
The phenomenon will occur as the moon passes directly in front of the sun while positioned at its farthest point from Earth in its elliptical orbit. Because the moon will appear slightly smaller in the sky at that distance, it will not completely obscure the sun — leaving a brilliant halo of light encircling the lunar silhouette.
Astronomers say the eclipse will unfold in distinct stages over several hours.
The partial phase will begin at 4:56 a.m. EST (0956 GMT), when the moon first appears to take a bite out of the sun’s edge. As the moon continues its path, the sun will gradually narrow into a glowing crescent.
Annularity — the “ring of fire” phase — will begin at 6:42 a.m. EST (1142 GMT). During this stage, the moon will sit fully within the sun’s disk, creating a luminous golden ring against a dimmed sky.
The maximum eclipse is expected at 7:12 a.m. EST (1212 GMT), when the moon aligns centrally, forming a near-perfect halo. This dramatic alignment will be visible across parts of Antarctica for roughly two hours before the ring begins to break.
The spectacle will conclude as the moon slowly moves away, restoring the sun to its full shape by the fourth and final contact.
While the eclipse’s path limits prime viewing to remote Antarctic regions, scientists note that annular eclipses are valuable opportunities for solar research, particularly in studying the sun’s outer edges and atmospheric effects.
Experts have also reiterated safety warnings, emphasizing that looking directly at the sun without certified eclipse glasses or solar filters can cause permanent eye damage.
Skywatchers will not have to wait long for the next major celestial event. A total lunar eclipse — often called a “blood moon” — is expected on March 3 and will be visible across North America, East Asia and Australia, continuing a dynamic season of astronomical activity.
