Muscat – Several major astronomical events in 2026, including a total lunar eclipse and an annular solar eclipse, will provide valuable opportunities for scientists to study the Moon and Earth’s atmosphere, according to the Oman Society of Astronomy and Space. A total lunar eclipse is set to occur on March 3, 2026, and will be […]
Muscat – Several major astronomical events in 2026, including a total lunar eclipse and an annular solar eclipse, will provide valuable opportunities for scientists to study the Moon and Earth’s atmosphere, according to the Oman Society of Astronomy and Space.
A total lunar eclipse is set to occur on March 3, 2026, and will be visible across East Asia, parts of Australia, and North and South America. However, it will not be visible in Oman or the wider Arab region as the Moon will be below the horizon during the event.
The eclipse will commence at 12:44pm Muscat time and reach its peak at 3:30pm.
A lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth passes between the Sun and the Moon, blocking direct sunlight from reaching the Moon. Depending on the Moon’s path through Earth’s shadow, the eclipse may be total, partial or penumbral.
Scientists use lunar eclipses to analyse the composition and behaviour of Earth’s atmosphere, monitor the Moon’s orbit, and study the effects of volcanic dust, pollution and ozone levels.
Reem bint Hamad al-Maliki, a member of the Oman Society of Astronomy and Space, told Muscat Daily that such phenomena contribute to research on the Moon’s physical characteristics and orbital motion, as well as the influence of atmospheric refraction on light.
She noted that eclipse data also supports measurements of pollution, volcanic particles and ozone concentration.
Al-Maliki added that astronomical events play an important role in raising scientific awareness, encouraging interest in science and linking the public with astronomical discoveries in a clear and reliable manner.
An annular solar eclipse is also expected on February 17, 2026. This occurs when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun while at a greater distance from Earth, leaving part of the Sun’s disc visible as a bright ring.
Al-Maliki explained that annular eclipses depend on the precise alignment of the Earth, Moon and Sun when the Moon is near its farthest point from Earth. Although such eclipses take place somewhere on Earth each year, a particular location may witness them only once in several decades.
The February 2026 annular eclipse will not be visible in Oman or the Arab region, with observation limited to Antarctica. It will begin at 1:57pm Muscat time as a partial eclipse, peak at 4:13pm and conclude at 6:28pm.
The Society affirmed that it continues to monitor such phenomena for scientific purposes and shares its findings with regional and international institutions. It also conducts outreach programmes to promote public awareness and safe viewing practices.
The most recent lunar eclipse visible in Oman occurred in September 2025, when observation activities were organised across several governorates.
MoCIIP launches national drive to boost construction sector efficiency
Her Story, Our Voice: Women’s health awareness campaign on Friday
Minister of the Royal Office receives Yemeni Ambassador
Man arrested following major jewellery theft worth RO 3000
CDAA tackles wildfire in Al Hamra
Sayyid Theyazin attends Kuwait Embassy celebration of National and Liberation days