Annular Solar Eclipse February 17, 2026 in Aquarius: Time, Visibility & Meaning

Solar eclipse February 2026: time and phases

The annular solar eclipse is on February 17, 2026, in Aquarius. The greatest eclipse occurs at 12:12 UTC (07:12 EST in New York). The partial phases begin at 09:57 UTC and end at 14:28 UTC, while the central phase runs from 11:43 UTC to 12:41 UTC. The Moon and Sun are both in Aquarius, with a magnitude of 0.98, and this eclipse belongs to Saros series 121.

Where to see the eclipse February 2026

This eclipse is not visible from Moscow, Novosibirsk, Vladivostok, London, New York, Los Angeles, or Sydney. It is visible from none of the listed cities. The path of annularity crosses remote regions, so check local astronomical resources for visibility in your area if you are outside these locations.

Eclipse 2026 in Aquarius: what it is about

This solar eclipse occurs with the Sun and Moon in Aquarius, a sign associated with freedom, innovation, and the collective. According to Vronsky, when the Moon transits Aquarius, people become more sensitive and nervous, subconsciously craving freedom and change. Routine work may feel difficult, while new, interesting, and unusual ideas attract attention. This is a good time for scientific work or inventiveness, but one must evaluate chances realistically, not letting imagination take over. The square from Uranus in Taurus, within a narrow orb, adds an element of surprise or sudden shifts, as Uranus often brings unexpected events.

What it may mean inside

Psychologically, an eclipse can act as a moment of inner alignment, where the conscious (Sun) and unconscious (Moon) meet in the same sign. In Aquarius, this meeting touches themes of individuality versus community, and the desire for authentic expression. The square from Uranus may stir a sense of restlessness or a need to break free from old patterns. This is not about external fate but about noticing what feels stuck or outdated in your life. It may be worth asking: what part of my life feels too routine, and where do I long for something more genuine? The eclipse offers a symbolic pause to reflect on these questions without pressure to act immediately.

How to live the eclipse season

Mercury is already in its pre-shadow phase, moving retrograde from February 26 to March 20, with the shadow period from February 11 to April 9. This means communication, travel, and technology may require extra attention. According to Robert Hand, transiting Moon effects are brief, but eclipses can influence a natal planet for several months. So it is wise to approach decisions with patience. Avoid rushing into major commitments during the eclipse window. Instead, use this time for observation: note what surprises arise, what ideas feel compelling, and where you sense a pull toward change. Vronsky suggests that during such periods, it is useless to appeal to reason alone—the soul craves something captivating. Allow yourself to dream, but keep a grounded perspective. The eclipse is a natural rhythm, not a warning—a chance to realign with what matters most.