Particle.news
Download on the App Store

2026 Astronomical Calendar Set: Snow Moon Feb. 1, Annular Eclipse Feb. 17, Total Solar Eclipse Aug. 12

Visibility maps and safety guidance from national agencies now frame the year’s eclipse viewing after January’s SaturnMoon pairing.

Overview

  • The February full moon, traditionally called the Snow Moon, occurs on February 1 and will be visible all night, with its naming rooted in North American and European traditions.
  • An annular solar eclipse on February 17 will show the ring of fire over Antarctica, with a partial phase visible from southern Argentina, Chile and southern Africa, according to SHN.
  • A total lunar eclipse before dawn on March 3 will be visible across the Americas, with NASA noting it is safe to watch with the naked eye and enhanced by binoculars or telescopes.
  • A total solar eclipse on August 12 will cross Greenland, Iceland, Russia and northern Spain, where observers should secure a clear western horizon as totality coincides with sunset in many locations.
  • Agencies confirm four eclipses in 2026—two solar and two lunar—with Mexico seeing both the March 3 total and the August 27–28 partial lunar eclipses, and experts stressing ISO 12312-2 eye protection for any solar viewing.