On August 12, 2026 , the sky will offer an exceptional spectacle: the most significant solar eclipse visible in France since 1999. To allow as many people as possible to enjoy this event safely, Ici Saint-Étienne Loire is making 600 pairs of certified eclipse glasses available for free collection at the Puy-en-Velay Tourist Office, Place du Breuil (while supplies last).
An exceptional astronomical event
On August 12th, the Moon will gradually pass in front of the Sun, offering a particularly spectacular partial eclipse across France. Depending on the region, Between 90% and 99% of the solar disk will be obscured., making this event the most beautiful eclipse visible from France in over twenty-five years.
The phenomenon will take place at the end of the day, between 19h and 20h30 depending on the observation points. The Sun, already low on the horizon, should offer a particularly remarkable light and atmosphere.
For astronomy enthusiasts and casual observers alike, this event is all the more exceptional because they will then have to wait 2081 to observe a new total eclipse from France.
Observe the eclipse safely
Watching a solar eclipse is a fascinating experience, but Observing the Sun without proper protection is extremely dangerous..
Eclipse glasses that meet safety standards filter 99,999% of sunlightThis protects the eyes from radiation that could permanently damage the retina. Unlike other injuries, a retinal burn is painless: the damage can be irreversible without being immediately apparent.
That is why it is essential to use glasses specially designed for observing eclipses and to keep them for the entire duration of the observation of the Sun.
600 pairs of glasses donated thanks to Ici Saint-Étienne
To allow as many people as possible to experience this event in the best possible conditions, This is Saint-Étienne Loire offer 600 pairs of observation glasses.
They are distributed for free at the reception desk of the Puy-en-Velay Tourist Office, Place du Breuil, in the limit of the available stock.
This initiative is part of an effort to raise awareness about the safe observation of astronomical phenomena and allows everyone to prepare now for this exceptional event.
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