GS3 · Environment11 Aug 2026 · The Hindu — Science & Tech
India bracing for celestial spectacle as 2026 solar eclipse draws near
A solar eclipse is when the Sun, Moon and Earth are in alignment, and the Moon passes directly between the Sun and Earth, casting a shadow on our planet and blocking some of the fiery ball’s light.
Quick Revision
Prelims-testable facts
- 01A solar eclipse occurs when the Sun, Moon, and Earth are aligned, with the Moon passing between the Sun and Earth.
- 02The total solar eclipse of 2026 will take place on August 12, 2026.
- 03The solar eclipse of 2026 will not be visible in India as it will occur at night.
- 04The path of totality for the 2026 solar eclipse will pass over parts of the Arctic, Greenland, Iceland, and Spain.
- 05India will remain outside the visibility zone for the total solar eclipse on August 12, 2026.
- 06A rare total solar eclipse will sweep across parts of the Northern Hemisphere on August 12, 2026.
Trap alerts
- Most people think a solar eclipse is visible in India on August 12, 2026, but actually it will not be visible due to occurring at night.
- Most people think the path of totality for the 2026 solar eclipse will pass over India, but actually it will pass over parts of the Arctic, Greenland, Iceland, and Spain.
Prelims Practice MCQs
Single facteasy
A solar eclipse occurs when which three celestial bodies are in alignment?
- A.Sun, Moon, and Mars
- B.Earth, Moon, and Sun
- C.Jupiter, Venus, and Mercury
- D.Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune
A solar eclipse occurs when the Earth, Moon, and Sun are in alignment, a rare celestial event.
Single factmedium
What happens to the Moon during a solar eclipse?
- A.The Moon orbits around the Earth
- B.The Moon passes directly between the Sun and Earth
- C.The Moon is eclipsed by the Sun
- D.The Moon disappears from view
During a solar eclipse, the Moon passes directly between the Sun and Earth, blocking sunlight.
Single facthard
What is the event called when the Moon passes directly between the Sun and Earth?
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