The Tamesis
On February 17, the first solar eclipse of 2026 arrives, bringing a significant change to your love life. This rare “ring of fire” solar eclipse in Aquarius is less about the grand romantic ending and more about a reset of how you connect—who you align with, what you value, and whether your relationships truly reflect the person you’re becoming.
Because this eclipse kicks off a new eclipse cycle, the changes it triggers are just the beginning of a longer story that will culminate with the Leo solar eclipse on August 17, 2026. “This eclipse could be a sign of a major turning point that could happen in 2026 – think major global and personal changes,” says astrologer and tarot expert Hillary Coke. “It carries the electric energy of Aquarius, opening new doors in our love lives.” To find out exactly what this means for you, read on.
What is a solar eclipse?
A solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the Earth and the sun, briefly blocking the sun’s light from our view. “In astrology, a solar eclipse is often viewed as an amplified new moon—a powerful reset that can bring about new beginnings, turning points, and developments in destiny,” Coker notes. “Because eclipses tend to speed up time, the days and weeks surrounding them can feel sudden or profoundly meaningful, prompting you to trust your inner guidance and pay attention to what is revealed. The energy of solar eclipses is never subtle.”
What is an annular solar eclipse in Aquarius?
The February 2026 solar eclipse is known as an annular or “ring of fire” eclipse. “This happens when the moon is slightly farther away from Earth, so it appears slightly smaller than the sun,” Coker said. “The moon doesn’t completely cover it, leaving a bright, glowing ring of sunlight at the edge of the moon,” Coker said.
Since the sun’s rays are still visible in the form of a halo, many astrologers interpret this eclipse in terms of continuity – where the storyline is edited rather than concluded. Total solar eclipses are often associated with radical interruptions or clear endings, whereas annular solar eclipses often indicate a process that unfolds in stages.
In this eclipse, you can still see the remaining outlines. Symbolically, this goes along with the idea of modifying, restructuring, or changing the way something works rather than abandoning it entirely.
How will the solar eclipse affect my love life?
This eclipse emphasizes future-oriented love rather than immediate consequences. “Since it’s still early in the year, there’s no need to rush. This is just the first solar eclipse and there will be more to come,” Coca-Cola said. “Use it to focus on the direction you want to grow and the relationships that match the direction you’re going.”
Because it falls in Aquarius, an air sign associated with thinking, communication, and shared ideals, connections are filtered through spiritual rapport and mutual connection rather than pure chemistry. “This is about friendship, community and shared values,” Coca-Cola said. Rather than signaling a whirlwind of couplings, a solar eclipse examines the architecture of your relationships—who you align with, how you engage, and whether these dynamics support who you are. “You may want to expand your circle—meet new people, reconnect with friends, or find communities that reflect your values.”
At the same time, it also exposes areas where you may be devaluing yourself to maintain harmony. “If you have been sacrificing your needs, voice, or identity to stay connected, this eclipse will bring that truth to the surface.” This process often turns inward first. “Self-love is foundational,” says Coca-Cola. “This eclipse invites you to redefine what love means to you: what partnerships you can form, what friendships you want to cultivate, and the boundaries you need to feel safe and respected. This is a powerful time to move from showing love to living love in a way that feels consistent, mutual, and authentic.”
The impact of the February 2026 solar eclipse on each zodiac sign’s love life
Of course, each sign will experience this eclipse slightly differently. Here are some possible scenarios for each scenario, Coca-Cola said.
Aries
Friendships may suddenly turn romantic. Remember: a shared vision is more important than chemistry.
Taurus
Public relationship milestones may come – an engagement, a breakup, or a defining love-centered conversation.
Gemini
Look at love from a distance. You may be attracted to people from different cultures or backgrounds. Be curious—love expands your worldview.
cancer
Watch out for emotional entanglements. You may be afraid of being vulnerable, but now is the time to take risks. It may also be time to completely release connections that have finished running.
leo
This can be a turning point in the relationship. The partnership that everyone thought would last might need to be let go—or you might meet someone who feels like it really matters.
Virgo
You may find that you agree more with your partner’s views on health and responsibility. An old debate that once felt huge may finally be resolved.
Libra
Love becomes creative and fun. Romance may feel like it’s moving full steam ahead, and even work connections may deepen.
Scorpio
Don’t just focus on romance; focus on family dynamics. Healing the past is critical to deepening intimacy in future relationships.
Sagittarius
Love takes a risky turn. You might drop one connection while falling into another, with little pause in between. A frank or honest conversation can clear up old resentments.
Capricorn
This eclipse highlights self-worth. Take an honest look at what needs to change so you can bring out your best self and invite the love to match.
aquarius
This lunar eclipse is a major reset for you. Try to be open to change: you will realize who you are more clearly.
Pisces
Take the time to sit down for some private therapy or quiet closure. If you’ve been longing for closure, this lunar eclipse can help you get it – and you may feel a little lighter by the end of the month.
Is there anything I should do?
take it easy. This eclipse is all about recalibrating—sometimes, just being aware of the energy is the best thing you can do. “Solar eclipses are not really manifestation portals, but you can think of them as course correction portals,” Coker said. “If you’re on the wrong path, eclipse season can nudge you back onto the right path.”
