Solar eclipse in 2026: A rare celestial event visible from Normandy

A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, temporarily blocking parts or all of the Sun's light. Although the Moon is much smaller than the Sun, its position in relation to Earth allows it to show up at almost exactly the same size in the sky, creating this impressive phenomenon. During a total eclipse, the Moon's shadow falls directly on Earth, the Sun's bright surface then disappears completely for a short period of time.

The 12th August eclipse will be a total eclipse along a narrow path crossing areas including Greenland, Iceland and Spain. Outside this path, many locations across Europe will still experience a partial eclipse, meaning that the Moon will only partially cover the Sun.

When and where to see the eclipse in Normandy

In Normandy, the eclipse will take place in the evening, shortly before sunset. In Caen specifically, the eclipse will begin at approximately 7:21 p.m., reach its peak at around 8:17 p.m. and end at 9:10 p.m. According to the French space agency CNES (Centre national d’études spatiales), approximately 93% of the Sun's surface will be covered by the Moon at the eclipse's peak.

To find out the time the eclipse will show up near you, here is an interactive map provided by the CNES:

Because the eclipse will happen close to sunset, the best places to observe it will be locations with a clear view towards the western horizon. Beaches along the Normandy coast, open countryside areas, and viewpoints away from tall buildings may offer particularly good conditions, if the weather remains clear.

How to safely watch the eclipse

Although an eclipse is a fascinating event, looking directly at the Sun without proper protection can cause serious and permanent eye damage. Normal sunglasses, even very dark ones, are actually not sufficient to protect your eyes.

To safely observe the eclipse, onlookers should use special solar viewing glasses, often referred to as "eclipse glasses". These glasses must comply with the international safety standard ISO 12312-2 and should be purchased from reliable suppliers such as pharmacies, opticians or supermarkets. Regular glasses, camera filters, binoculars or telescopes should never be used without appropriate solar filters, as they can concentrate sunlight and permanently damage eyesight.

During the partial phases of the eclipse, eclipse glasses must be worn at all times when looking towards the Sun. Only during the brief period of totality (in locations where the Sun is completely covered) will people be able to safely look at the phenomenon without eye protection. Since Normandy will experience a partial eclipse, viewers should keep their eclipse glasses on throughout the entire event.

A rare experience you won't want to miss

Solar eclipses are not everyday events. Although partial eclipses occur more frequently, a spectacular eclipse visible from a specific region is a rare opportunity. If the weather allows it, make sure to find a good viewing spot, bring certified eclipse glasses and do not miss the chance to experience this rare celestial spectacle!