The Pakistan Meteorological Department has released the official schedule for solar and lunar eclipses expected in 2026, setting the stage for an exciting year for astronomy enthusiasts — even if most events will not be visible from Pakistan.
According to the department, the year will feature two solar eclipses and two lunar eclipses.
The first solar eclipse is set for February 17, beginning at 3:00 PM, reaching its peak around 5:00 PM, and ending by 7:30 PM Pakistan Standard Time. However, this celestial event will not be visible from Pakistan.
The first lunar eclipse will occur on March 3, and will be partially visible in parts of Pakistan. Another solar eclipse is expected on August 12–13, but like the first, it will not be visible in the country. The second lunar eclipse, scheduled for August 28, will also remain out of sight for local observers.
These events will, however, offer valuable opportunities for global skywatchers and scientists to study the alignment of celestial bodies and the Earth–Sun–Moon relationship in greater depth.
In related news, NASA has confirmed the discovery of a second moon-like object orbiting near Earth. Detected by astronomers at the University of Hawaii, the small celestial body — measuring between 18 and 36 meters — has been traveling alongside Earth since the 1960s and is expected to remain in orbit until 2083.
Unlike Earth’s main Moon, this quasi-moon doesn’t orbit Earth directly. Instead, it circles the Sun while keeping pace with Earth’s orbit, staying roughly 4 million kilometers away — making it a rare and fascinating cosmic companion.
As 2026 approaches, astronomers and stargazers alike are gearing up for a spectacular year of celestial wonders and scientific surprises.
In other news also read about Astronomers Discover Young Rogue Planet Devouring Its Surroundings
