Incredible image shows what the first solar eclipse of 2026 looked like from space
A satellite captured the recent “Ring of Fire” eclipse from a stunning new angle
“Ring of Fire” solar eclipse on February 17
ESA/Royal Observatory of Belgium
Just days ago the Moon traveled directly between Earth and the Sun in what was the first solar eclipse of the year, creating a stunning “ring of fire” effect in the sky. However, unfortunately for many sky-watchers, Only Those living in Antarctica or off its coast may have seen a total eclipse on February 17.
But now new images from the European Space Agency (ESA) reveal the solar eclipse in all its plasma glory, thanks to ESA’s PROBA-2 satellite. PROBA-2 is a small satellite host Two primary instruments designed to observe the Sun and the other to study space weather. As the spacecraft orbited our planet, the satellite imaged the eclipse at least four times and captured a “perfect” ring of fire, according to Agency.
Also known as an annular eclipse, the ring of fire effect occurs because the Moon appears slightly smaller than the Sun in the sky. Although the Moon passes directly between Earth and our star during such an eclipse, it does not get close enough to completely block out the Sun’s light, leaving a bright halo.
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Four images from PROBA-2 passing over the eclipse area
ESA/Royal Observatory of Belgium
From the prime viewing location of Concordia Station in Antarctica, the ring was reportedly visible for almost two minutes.
The next eclipse of 2026 is a total lunar eclipse Starting March 3 UTC. The Earth will then cast a shadow on the Moon, filling it with red. This eclipse, known as a “blood moon,” will be at least partially, if not completely, visible to viewers in Asia, Australia, the Pacific Islands and the Americas.
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