In 2026, skywatchers around the world will have a remarkable opportunity to observe one of nature’s most intriguing celestial phenomena: a partial solar eclipse.

Unlike a total solar eclipse, where the Moon completely blocks the Sun, a partial solar eclipse occurs when the Moon moves between the Earth and the Sun but only covers a portion of the Sun’s disk.

This results in the Sun appearing as if a “bite” has been taken out of it—a spectacular sight when viewed safely with proper eye protection. Although the year will also bring a total solar eclipse on August 12, 2026 that draws global attention, the partial phase of that event will be visible from much broader regions, offering a more accessible experience for millions of observers.

Understanding the Partial Solar Eclipse in 2026

A partial solar eclipse is fundamentally a matter of geometry and perspective. The Moon casts two types of shadows on Earth: the umbra, where the Sun is completely obscured, and the penumbra, where only part of the Sun is hidden. During a partial eclipse, observers are located in the penumbral shadow, and the Moon covers part—but not all of the solar disk.

In 2026, there are two significant solar eclipses, but only one will have a pronounced partial phase for many populated areas:

February 17, 2026 — Annular Solar Eclipse: This event is centered over Antarctica and produces a distinctive “ring of fire” where the Moon appears smaller than the Sun. Nevertheless, across wide regions of southern South America and southern Africa, the eclipse will be seen as partial, with a large percentage of the Sun obscured.

August 12, 2026 — Total Solar Eclipse: Though the path of totality is narrow and crosses parts of Greenland, Iceland, and northern Spain, observers across Europe, northern Africa, and parts of North America will witness this eclipse as a partial solar eclipse, where a significant portion of the Sun is covered but not entirely.

Where the Partial Solar Eclipse Will Be Visible

Annular Eclipse Partial Views (Feb 17, 2026)

Though the dramatic “ring of fire” of the February eclipse will be confined to remote Antarctic regions, much broader areas will experience the partial phase:

Southern Argentina and Chile: Residents and visitors will witness the Moon covering a large portion of the Sun.

Southern Africa (e.g., South Africa, Namibia, Zimbabwe): The Sun will appear “bitten”, with the degree of coverage varying by location.

Islands of the Indian Ocean: Coastal regions near Mauritius and Madagascar will see partial obscuration.

In these locations, the partial eclipse may last for over an hour, with the Moon’s silhouette progressively moving across the Sun.

August Total Eclipse Partial Views

For the August 12 eclipse, many cities outside the narrow totality path will still enjoy an impressive partial display:

Across Europe: Cities such as London, Paris, and Lisbon will witness most of the Sun covered by the Moon at peak phase.

Northern Africa: Observers in Morocco and surrounding regions will see a dramatic partial phase.

North America (far north): In places like Newfoundland and parts of Eastern Canada, the Sun will seem partially eclipsed.

This means that even those not in the path of totality can participate in the wonder of an eclipse.

Timing and Viewing Opportunities

The exact timing of a partial solar eclipse depends on the observer’s longitude and latitude. For the February event, local times vary widely due to the eclipse’s long track across the Southern Hemisphere. In August, the partial phases begin several hours before and after the central totality, giving observers ample opportunity to view the progress of the Moon’s movement across the Sun.

No matter where you are, planning ahead is key. Observers should consult reputable astronomical resources or local observatories for precise timing in their area. Many astronomy clubs and science centers will host public viewing events, complete with educational commentary and safe viewing tools.

Safety: Never Look Directly at the Sun

A critical part of preparing for a partial solar eclipse is understanding eye safety. Looking directly at the Sun—even when it is partially covered by the Moon can cause serious and permanent eye damage. Standard sunglasses do not provide sufficient protection. Instead:

- Use ISO‑certified solar eclipse glasses that meet international safety standards.

- Consider indirect viewing methods such as a pinhole projector or filtered telescopes designed specifically for solar observation.

These precautions ensure that the experience is both awe‑inspiring and safe for observers of all ages.

Why the 2026 Partial Solar Eclipse Matters

Astronomical events like the 2026 partial solar eclipse are more than scientific curiosities; they connect us to cosmic rhythms that have shaped human observation for millennia. Across cultures and civilizations, eclipses have inspired wonder, prompted scientific inquiry, and reminded humanity of our place within a dynamic universe.

In 2026, whether you witness the Moon’s shadow take a modest “bite” out of the Sun or travel to regions of total darkness, the partial solar eclipse promises to be an unforgettable moment. Prepare your viewing safely, mark your calendars, and let the sky’s grand choreography draw your eyes and imagination upward.