The year 2026 promises to be a celestial blockbuster, offering a dazzling array of astronomical events for sky watchers across India and the globe. From dramatic eclipses and brilliant supermoons to a historic human mission around the Moon, the heavens are putting on a show that requires some planning to fully appreciate. Whether you're a casual observer with just your eyes or an enthusiast with a telescope, marking your calendar for these dates will ensure you don't miss the cosmic action.
Major Eclipses and Planetary Alignments in 2026
The celestial drama begins early with an annular solar eclipse on 17 February 2026. This creates the stunning 'ring of fire' effect as the Moon covers the Sun's centre. While the path of totality is only over Antarctica, observers in parts of southern Africa and South America will witness a partial eclipse.
Soon after, on 3 March 2026, a total lunar eclipse will grace the skies. During this event, the full 'Worm Moon' will plunge into Earth's shadow, turning a deep, coppery red for about 58 minutes. This spectacle will be visible from western North America, East Asia, Australia, and New Zealand, and will be the last total lunar eclipse until 2028.
Planetary observers get their treat in mid-November. From 14 to 16 November 2026, Mars and Jupiter will engage in a close conjunction, coming within 1 degree of each other. This will allow both bright planets to be seen together in the same field of view through a pair of binoculars, a sight visible worldwide.
Supermoons, Meteor Showers, and the Blue Moon
Lunar enthusiasts have multiple reasons to look up. The year kicks off with a Supermoon on 3 January 2026, with the Wolf Moon appearing larger and brighter due to its close approach to Earth. Another Supermoon will cap the year on 24 December 2026, which will be the closest and most luminous full moon since 2019.
Adding to the lunar calendar is a Blue Moon on 31 May 2026. This term refers to the second full moon in a single calendar month, a relatively rare occurrence that is a treat for moon-gazers, even though the moon doesn't actually change colour.
One of the most anticipated nights of the year will be 12-13 August 2026. This period features a double feature: a total solar eclipse sweeping across Greenland, Iceland, and Spain, followed by the peak of the reliable Perseid meteor shower later that night. Finding a dark sky location will be key to enjoying the 'star streaks' of the meteors.
NASA's Historic Artemis II Mission
Beyond natural phenomena, 2026 will witness a landmark human spaceflight. NASA's Artemis II mission is scheduled for 5 February 2026. This 10-day crewed voyage will send four astronauts on a journey around the Moon aboard the Orion spacecraft. The mission will venture more than 5,800 miles past the lunar far side, marking the farthest distance humans have ever traveled from Earth. While not directly visible, the mission's progress will be a major event covered by global media.
Other notable events include Jupiter at its brightest opposition on 10 January, potential vivid aurora displays around the spring equinox on 20 March, and a deep partial lunar eclipse on 28 August where over 96% of the Moon will be immersed in Earth's shadow, appearing rust-coloured from the Americas, Europe, and Africa.
With this packed celestial schedule, 2026 is shaping up to be a perfect year for families and friends in India to gather, look skyward, and share in the wonders of our universe. A little planning with this guide will help you catch every spectacular moment.
