New Moon February 2026 Time

New Moon February 2026: Your Definitive Guide to Dates, Times, and a Rare Solar Eclipse

You’re here for specifics, and I’m here to deliver. You want to know exactly when the New Moon graces February 2026, and perhaps, what makes this particular lunation special. Let’s cut to the chase: February’s New Moon isn’t just another lunar phase; it’s a cosmic event that coincides with a significant annular solar eclipse.

Table of Contents

• New Moon February 2026: Your Definitive Guide to Dates, Times, and a Rare Solar Eclipse
• The Core Details: When is the February 2026 New Moon?
• Global & Universal Time (UTC): The Starting Point
• US Time Zones: Your Local New Moon Moment
• More Than Just a New Moon: The Annular Solar Eclipse of February 2026
• What is an Annular Solar Eclipse?
• Where Will the Eclipse Be Visible? (And Why It Matters for Your New Moon)
• Unpacking the New Moon: Science, Significance, and What to Expect
• The Astronomy Behind the New Moon
• Cultural and Astrological Meaning
• The Lunar Cycle in February 2026: A Quick Look
• Preparing for the New Moon and Eclipse
• Observing the New Moon (or Lack Thereof)
• If You’re in the Eclipse Path (or Watching Online)
• Embracing the Energy: Rituals & Reflection
• Beyond February: A Glimpse at 2026’s Lunar Calendar

Understanding the exact timing is crucial, especially when planning for observation (of the eclipse, not the invisible New Moon itself) or simply aligning with its unique energy. I’ll break down the precise moments for you, covering major US time zones, and explain why this particular New Moon carries an extra layer of astronomical wonder.

The Core Details: When is the February 2026 New Moon?

For celestial events, we always start with Universal Coordinated Time (UTC) as the global standard. From there, we translate it to your local time. This New Moon arrives early in the morning for most of the United States, bringing with it a subtle yet powerful energy.

Global & Universal Time (UTC): The Starting Point

The New Moon in February 2026 officially occurs on:

• Date: Tuesday, February 17, 2026
• Time: 12:01 UTC (Universal Coordinated Time)

This is the precise astronomical moment when the Moon is perfectly aligned between the Earth and the Sun, making its sunlit side face away from us, rendering it invisible in our night sky. But as you’ll see, its alignment this month has an even bigger consequence.

Image Source: wyldemoon.com

US Time Zones: Your Local New Moon Moment

To help you pinpoint the exact time no matter where you are in the contiguous United States, here’s a breakdown of the New Moon’s arrival in major US time zones:

US Time Zone	New Moon Date	New Moon Time
Hawaii Standard Time (HST)	Tuesday, February 17, 2026	02:01 AM HST
Alaska Standard Time (AST)	Tuesday, February 17, 2026	03:01 AM AST
Pacific Standard Time (PST)	Tuesday, February 17, 2026	04:01 AM PST
Mountain Standard Time (MST)	Tuesday, February 17, 2026	05:01 AM MST
Central Standard Time (CST)	Tuesday, February 17, 2026	06:01 AM CST
Eastern Standard Time (EST)	Tuesday, February 17, 2026	07:01 AM EST

So, for most of us in the continental US, you’ll likely be waking up or just starting your day as this New Moon begins its cycle. While you won’t ‘see’ the New Moon, its astronomical alignment is profound, especially this month.

More Than Just a New Moon: The Annular Solar Eclipse of February 2026

Here’s where the February 2026 New Moon gets particularly exciting: it coincides with a rare and captivating celestial event – an annular solar eclipse. This isn’t just a minor coincidence; it’s a direct result of the precise alignment of the Sun, Moon, and Earth during the New Moon phase.

What is an Annular Solar Eclipse?

An annular solar eclipse, often called a “Ring of Fire” eclipse, happens when the Moon passes directly in front of the Sun, but it’s too far from Earth to completely cover the Sun. Because of this greater distance, the Moon appears smaller in the sky than the Sun. As a result, a bright ring of the Sun’s light (the annulus) is visible around the Moon’s silhouette. It’s a breathtaking sight, distinct from a total solar eclipse where the Sun is completely obscured.

The fact that the February 2026 New Moon produces an annular eclipse means the lunar alignment is exceptionally precise, setting the stage for this spectacular celestial show.

Where Will the Eclipse Be Visible? (And Why It Matters for Your New Moon)

While the New Moon itself occurs globally, an annular solar eclipse is only visible from a relatively narrow path across the Earth’s surface. For the February 17, 2026, annular solar eclipse, the path of annulity will primarily traverse parts of Antarctica and the southern Atlantic Ocean. A partial solar eclipse will be visible over wider areas, including parts of South America and Africa.

Important Note for US Observers: Unfortunately, the annular solar eclipse of February 2026 will not be visible from the contiguous United States, Hawaii, or Alaska. While this might be disappointing for direct observation, it doesn’t diminish the astronomical significance of the New Moon. It simply means its most dramatic visual effect will be witnessed elsewhere on the globe.

However, the global nature of this event is a powerful reminder of our interconnectedness with the cosmos. Even if you can’t see the “Ring of Fire” in person, the cosmic mechanics are still at play, marking this New Moon as a particularly potent alignment.

Unpacking the New Moon: Science, Significance, and What to Expect

Beyond the eclipse, the New Moon phase itself holds intrinsic scientific and symbolic weight. It’s not just a blank spot in the sky; it’s a profound moment in the lunar cycle.

The Astronomy Behind the New Moon

A New Moon occurs when the Moon is positioned between the Earth and the Sun. From our perspective on Earth, the side of the Moon facing us is completely unilluminated by the Sun, making it essentially invisible. This is often referred to as the “dark moon.”

Here’s the scientific breakdown:

• Alignment: Sun – Moon – Earth.
• Illumination: The side of the Moon facing Earth receives no direct sunlight.
• Visibility: Generally invisible to the naked eye. Sometimes, a very thin, barely perceptible crescent might be seen just before or after the exact New Moon, known as the “thin crescent moon.”
• Gravitational Pull: During a New Moon (and Full Moon), the combined gravitational pull of the Sun and Moon on Earth is at its strongest, leading to higher-than-average tides known as spring tides.

Cultural and Astrological Meaning

Throughout history, the New Moon has been a powerful symbol across various cultures and spiritual traditions. It marks the beginning of a new lunar cycle, making it a potent time for:

Image Source: theskylive.com

• New Beginnings: It’s an ideal time for setting intentions, starting new projects, or planting literal and metaphorical seeds for growth. Think of it as a blank slate or a fresh chapter.
• Introspection: With the moon’s light hidden, it encourages turning inward, self-reflection, and quiet contemplation.
• Release and Reset: It’s a natural period to let go of old habits, clear out mental clutter, and reset your personal goals.

For those interested in astrology, the February 2026 New Moon will occur in the zodiac sign of Aquarius. This placement emphasizes themes of innovation, humanitarianism, community, and breaking free from conventional thinking. Combined with the eclipse, this makes for an energetically charged period for collective and personal evolution.

The Lunar Cycle in February 2026: A Quick Look

While our focus is on the New Moon, it’s helpful to see it within the broader context of February’s entire lunar cycle. Here’s a quick overview of all the major moon phases for the month (all times in UTC and approximate EST for convenience):

As you can see, the New Moon on February 17th kicks off a fresh cycle, leading towards the Full Moon in early March.

Preparing for the New Moon and Eclipse

Even though you won’t be able to physically ‘see’ the New Moon, or the eclipse from the US, you can still engage with these powerful celestial events.

Observing the New Moon (or Lack Thereof)

Since the New Moon is inherently invisible, direct observation isn’t possible. Instead, think of this period as one for internal observation. Use the quiet, dark skies to your advantage: practice meditation, journaling, or simply enjoy the true darkness if you’re far from city lights. The lack of moonlight makes it a fantastic time for observing faint deep-sky objects with a telescope or binoculars, or simply appreciating the vastness of the Milky Way.

If You’re in the Eclipse Path (or Watching Online)

For those outside the US who might be in the path of the annular solar eclipse, or for anyone wanting to experience it virtually, here are crucial considerations:

Image Source: weather.com

• Solar Eclipse Glasses: If you are in a location where the partial or annular eclipse is visible, NEVER look directly at the Sun without certified solar eclipse glasses or viewers. Regular sunglasses are NOT safe.
• Pinhole Projector: A simple and safe way to observe a solar eclipse indirectly is by making a pinhole projector.
• Live Streams: Many observatories and astronomical organizations will likely provide live streams of the eclipse online. This is the best way for US residents to witness the “Ring of Fire.” Keep an eye on reputable astronomy websites closer to February 2026 for streaming details.

Embracing the Energy: Rituals & Reflection

Whether you’re astronomically inclined or spiritually curious, the New Moon offers a perfect opportunity to set intentions for the coming month:

• Goal Setting: Write down your aspirations, what you want to manifest, or new habits you wish to cultivate. The New Moon energy is about planting seeds.
• Decluttering: Just as the Moon clears the sky of its light, clear your physical or mental space. A tidy environment can lead to a clearer mind.
• Quiet Contemplation: Take time for yourself. Reflect on where you are, where you want to go, and what you need to release to move forward.

Beyond February: A Glimpse at 2026’s Lunar Calendar

The February 2026 New Moon, with its accompanying solar eclipse, is just one of many fascinating lunar events throughout the year. The celestial dance continues, offering regular opportunities for reflection and wonder.

Here’s a snapshot of all the New Moons expected in 2026:

Notice the Total Solar Eclipse in September 2026! This highlights that February’s event is just the beginning of an astronomically active year.

The New Moon in February 2026 is more than just a date on the calendar; it’s a moment of astronomical precision coinciding with an annular solar eclipse, marking a powerful time for new beginnings and cosmic awareness. Even though its visual spectacle is reserved for other parts of the world, its energetic significance is universal. Mark your calendars, set your intentions, and look forward to a year of profound lunar journeys.

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is the New Moon in February 2026?

The New Moon in February 2026 occurs on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at 12:01 UTC. It’s the moment when the Moon is directly between the Earth and the Sun, making it invisible from Earth. This particular New Moon is exceptionally significant because it coincides with an annular solar eclipse, making it a powerful astronomical event.

Image Source: astro-seekmooncalendar.com

Will the February 2026 solar eclipse be visible from the USA?

No, the annular solar eclipse coinciding with the February 2026 New Moon will not be visible from the contiguous United States, Hawaii, or Alaska. Its path of annulity will primarily cross Antarctica and the southern Atlantic Ocean. However, you may be able to watch it via live streams from observatories closer to the date.

How do I know the exact New Moon time for my specific location in the US?

The New Moon is on Tuesday, February 17, 2026. For major US time zones, it occurs at 04:01 AM PST, 05:01 AM MST, 06:01 AM CST, and 07:01 AM EST. If you’re in Hawaii or Alaska, it’s 02:01 AM HST and 03:01 AM AST, respectively. Always adjust based on your local time zone’s offset from UTC.

Is it safe to look at the Sun during the annular solar eclipse?

Absolutely not. It is never safe to look directly at the Sun without specialized, certified solar eclipse glasses or viewers, even during an annular or partial eclipse. Regular sunglasses offer no protection. Looking directly at the Sun can cause severe and permanent eye damage.

What’s the astrological significance of the February 2026 New Moon?

Astrologically, the February 2026 New Moon falls in the sign of Aquarius. This placement emphasizes themes of innovation, intellectual pursuits, community, humanitarian efforts, and embracing individuality. Coupled with the eclipse, it suggests a potent time for breakthroughs, new ideas, and collective shifts towards progress and unique self-expression.

How often do solar eclipses coincide with a New Moon?

A solar eclipse can *only* happen during a New Moon phase, as this is when the Moon is positioned between the Earth and the Sun. However, not every New Moon results in a solar eclipse because the Moon’s orbit is slightly tilted relative to Earth’s orbit around the Sun. This tilt means the alignment isn’t always perfect enough for the Moon’s shadow to fall on Earth.

What other major moon phases occur in February 2026?

Besides the New Moon on February 17th, February 2026 also features a Last Quarter Moon on February 10th (01:43 UTC) and a First Quarter Moon on February 24th (09:12 UTC). The Full Moon for this cycle will occur in early March, on March 4th (10:48 UTC).