Solar Eclipse of February 26, 2017, Observed from the SAMBA Magnetometer Network

A report on the geomagnetic variations observed in Chile and Antarctica during the annular solar eclipse of February 26, 2017, is presented. This eclipse was visible from southern Chile in the morning and ended in the Democratic Republic of the Congo at sunset. Using data from three SAMBA network stations positioned at different magnetic latitudes along the 0° geomagnetic longitude and around the path of annularity, we analyzed changes in the geomagnetic field’s X, Y, and Z components during the eclipse. A baseline method, derived from the quietest days of the month, was applied to isolate eclipse-induced disturbances. Our analysis shows a decrease in the X component, an increase in the Y component, and a flattening of the Z component in synchrony with the eclipse. In addition, an analysis of ULF Pc3 pulsations reveals a localized attenuation of wave amplitudes during the eclipse, particularly near the umbral path. These results align with theoretical predictions and previous observations, suggesting a strong influence of the solar eclipse on the observed geomagnetic variations. The study reinforces the role of solar radiation reduction in modulating ionospheric currents and provides insights into the Earth’s magnetospheric response during these events. The study provides evidence of the role of solar radiation in regulating ionospheric currents and geomagnetic field variations in response to transient solar events, particularly in the Chile-Antarctica sector.