There are astronomical phenomena that you wouldn't want to miss for any reason. Among them, we have the total solar eclipse on August 12, 2026. This one is particularly rare since the last one occurred on August 11, 1999, while the next one of the same kind is expected on September 3, 2081, according to the French Astronomical Association (AFA).
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A Visible Eclipse Across Europe
For a few minutes, a part of the world will be plunged into darkness as the Moon perfectly aligns between the Earth and the Sun. Only a small ring of light will be visible. According to the Société astronomique de France, « the path of totality will cross the Arctic Ocean, Greenland, Iceland, the Atlantic Ocean, then reach Portugal and northern Spain, extending to the island of Mallorca ».
In France, the residents of the West Coast will be the ones who can best enjoy this eclipse. In the North and Paris, it will only be partially visible between 7 PM and 9 PM. In the capital, « 92% of the sun will be obscured.
à 20h17 », specifies the AFA. All of France will be able to observe this phenomenon « at nearly 90% ».
Safety Measures to Take for Observing the Eclipse
If this total solar eclipse promises to be a majestic historic spectacle, there are a few safety guidelines to follow. Looking at the sun with the naked eye can lead to retinal burns. Therefore, it is essential to have suitable eye protection, with filters that meet the ISO 123 12-2 standard.
The « Eclipse info » system, created in 1999, aims to inform as many people as possible, but also to « ensure the availability of compliant protective equipment ».
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