THE PHENOMENON of an annular or annular solar eclipse solar eclipse confirmed to occur on February 17, 2026. This event is widely discussed because it displays a distinctive visual effect in the form of a ring of sunlight surrounding the Moon.
This phenomenon is popularly known as the ring of fire. NASA astronomy reports say this eclipse is rare, even though it cannot be seen evenly throughout the world.
A ring solar eclipse occurs when the Moon is directly between the Earth and the Sun, but its position is at its farthest point from the Earth.
As a result, the size of the Moon appears smaller so it is unable to cover the entire disk of the Sun. The remaining edge of the Sun is what creates a light effect resembling a bright ring in the sky.
Eclipse path is limited, not all areas can see it
Based on astronomers’ monitoring, the main path of the ring of fire this time crosses the Antarctic region and parts of the ocean in the Earth’s southern hemisphere. NASA said that only certain areas can see the complete ring of fire phase. Meanwhile, some other regions in the world will only see a partial solar eclipse, some will not even be affected at all.
Indonesia itself is not included in the ring of fire. This means that, even if visible, this phenomenon only appears as a partial eclipse with limited intensity. Even so, astronomers still remind people not to look directly at the Sun without special protection, because solar radiation is still dangerous for the eyes.
Why is this phenomenon important to science?
Reporting from Forbes, an annular solar eclipse is an important moment for research into the Sun’s atmosphere and observing the orbital dynamics of the Moon. This event is also part of a series of eclipse cycles that occur periodically, but rarely cross inhabited areas. Therefore, every event is still recorded and analyzed by the global community of astronomers.
This phenomenon confirms that eclipses are not just a celestial spectacle, but part of a cosmic system that can be predicted with precision through modern astronomy.
In Islamic teachings, a solar eclipse is known as a kusuf eclipse and it is recommended to respond with solar eclipse prayers (Salat Kusuf). This worship is carried out as a form of reflection and reminder of God’s greatness, not because of certain myths or signs.
The intention of the eclipse prayer is done in the heart, like other sunnah prayers. The kusuf prayer is performed in two rak’ahs, but with a special procedure, namely the recitation of Al-Fatihah and a longer letter, as well as extended bowing and prostration. There is no call to prayer or iqamah before the prayer.
After praying, people are encouraged to increase their prayers, dhikr and istigfar until the eclipse ends. This practice refers to authentic hadith which are also widely quoted in Islamic literature.
The ring of fire phenomenon next week is a reminder that science and spiritual reflection can go hand in hand, without needing to be embellished with exaggerated claims or sensational narratives. (E-4)
date:2026-02-09 15:58:00
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