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New Delhi: The first and very special total solar eclipse of the year 2026 is going to occur on 12th August i.e. today. People's interest in this astronomical event has increased in India also. However, this eclipse will not be visible in India. According to NASA, the total solar eclipse will be visible from Greenland, Iceland, Northern Russia, Atlantic Ocean, parts of Spain and Portugal. In astrology, Sun is considered a symbol of confidence, energy and leadership. Therefore, religious and astrological beliefs regarding eclipse are also discussed. However, astrological predictions to eclipse are not considered scientific facts.

According to Indian time, the eclipse will begin on the night of 12th August and some part of it will continue till the early hours of 13th August. The time of start and end of the eclipse will be different at different places. In India this will happen at night, when the sun will be below the horizon. Therefore it will not be visible directly from any part of the country. According to NASA, during a total eclipse the Moon will completely cover the Sun for some time. The maximum duration of completion will be less than about two and a half minutes.

Will solar eclipse be visible in India?

The biggest question regarding this eclipse is whether Indians will be able to see it. The answer is- no. The eclipse will not be visible in India. The reason for this is that during the eclipse it will be night in India and the Sun will not be present in the sky. However, people can watch it through live stream of space agencies.

Will there be Sutak period in India?

According to religious beliefs, Sutak period is linked to the visibility of the eclipse. Since this solar eclipse of 12th August will not be visible in India, hence Sutak period will not be considered valid here. This means that normal religious activities can be continued and there will be no need for arrangements like keeping temples closed. No person, including pregnant women, needs to stop their normal eating habits or daily activities just because of the eclipse.

In which countries will the eclipse be visible?

The total solar eclipse of August 12 will be visible in Greenland, Iceland, northern Russia, Spain and a small part of Portugal. Apart from this, partial solar eclipse can be seen in Europe, Canada, some parts of America and many areas of North-Western Africa.

What is solar eclipse?

When the Moon comes between the Sun and the Earth and all three are in a straight line, then the Moon's shadow falls on some parts of the Earth. In this situation, some or all part of the Sun appears covered. When the Moon completely covers the Sun, it is called a total solar eclipse.

What to do during eclipse?

People who follow religious beliefs can meditate, chant mantras or pray during the eclipse. 'Om Suryay Namah' or Gayatri Mantra can also be chanted. From the scientific point of view, the most important thing is not to look at the Sun directly with the eyes. Certified solar-viewing glasses should be used to view the eclipse.

Even during a total eclipse, viewing the Sun without protection is permitted only during the very short period of time when the bright part of the Sun is completely covered. It is necessary to stop eating and drinking during the eclipse, there is no scientific basis for this. Healthy people, children, elderly and patients should keep taking food and water as per their need. It is important to give priority to health above any religious belief.