Observing the 12 August Solar Eclipse Safely

A solar eclipse will be visible on 12 August, between 7.20 p.m. and 9.10 p.m., with peak visibility in Monaco and the Alpes-Maritimes expected at around 8.25 p.m.

Members of the public are reminded that looking directly at the sun with the naked eye, or without appropriate eye protection, even for a very short period of time, may cause irreversible damage to the retina and lead to permanent vision loss.

The eclipse should only be observed using special-purpose solar viewing glasses bearing the CE marking and complying with ISO 12312-2. These are available from opticians, pharmacies and specialist retailers.

Please note: sunglasses, regardless of how dark they are, do not provide adequate protection for viewing a solar eclipse.

Particular care should also be taken to ensure that children observe the eclipse safely.

Anyone experiencing visual symptoms after observing the eclipse, such as persistent blurred or reduced vision, or the appearance of a dark spot in their field of vision, is strongly advised to seek prompt advice from an ophthalmologist.