Celestial Events of 2026, A Year of Four Major Eclipses

The year 2026 is poised to be a significant one for skywatchers, featuring a total of four eclipses: two solar and two lunar. These astronomical events will be observed in various parts of the world, with some potentially being visible in India.The first celestial event of the year will be an annular solar eclipse, occurring on February 17, 2026. This will be followed by a total lunar eclipse on March 3, 2026. This particular lunar eclipse is expected to be visible in India. The timing of this eclipse is notable as it will coincide with the festival of Holi, which falls on a Tuesday that year, making it a unique occurrence.Later in the year, a spectacular total solar eclipse is anticipated on August 12, 2026. This will be the first total solar eclipse visible in Europe since 1999. The year's astronomical events will conclude with a partial lunar eclipse on August 28, 2026. This eclipse will also be visible from India.According to astronomical calculations, the occurrence of these eclipses holds significance in various cultural and astrological beliefs. The appearance of a lunar eclipse on the day of Holi is considered a rare event. Similarly, the partial lunar eclipse in August will take place during the auspicious Hindu month of Sawan, which is dedicated to the worship of Lord Shiva. The visibility of two lunar eclipses from India in 2026 makes it a year of particular interest for observers and those who follow astrological predictions in the country.