An solar eclipse is set to occur on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, and France will get a prime viewing opportunity with more than 90% obscuration in some areas. In Paris and the Île-de-France region, the eclipse will be partial but remarkably dramatic. That said, it is absolutely essential to avoid looking directly at the sun, as doing so can cause serious eye damage. You must obtain certified ISO 12312-2 eclipse glasses.
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Heads up: plan ahead for the event and don't wait until the last minute—some places are already out of stock. Do not try to buy the day before. Expect to pay between 3 and 5 euros for a pair of these cardboard glasses that protect the eyes and prevent irreversible eye damage and retinal burns. Regular sunglasses won’t do—the filters must be dark and thick.
Precautions, timing, best spots, how to prepare for the August 2026 solar eclipse?
In August 2026, the sky will dim for a rare encounter: a solar eclipse. In the Paris region, with about 92% coverage, you’ll want to take precautions to observe it safely. Timing, safety, location—we’ll walk you through everything to get prepared! [Read more]
Precautions, timing, best spots, how to prepare for the August 2026 solar eclipse?Where to find these glasses?
Start by checking with your nearest optician! Also try pharmacies, supermarkets, DIY stores, or leisure outlets. Online, proceed with caution: make sure the product explicitly states the certification to ensure the glasses are reliable and won’t pose a risk to your eyes.
Some towns or venues hosting eclipse-related events may distribute glasses on site, so check with your town hall, an astronomy club, a planetarium, or a nearby observatory for details.
On August 12, 2026, a spectacular partial solar eclipse will be visible from Paris and the entire Île-de-France region. Here’s what you need to know to give yourself the best possible chances… [Read more]
Solar eclipse of August 12, 2026: where to watch this astronomical spectacle from Paris?
