Journalist Anicet Mbida has outlined the essential equipment required to view France's total solar eclipse safely on Wednesday, August 12, warning observers against retina damage.
Speaking on the morning show Bonjour! La Matinale TF1 on Monday, August 10, the innovation specialist stressed that protective eyewear is mandatory for anyone looking directly at the sun. The spectacle marks the first total solar eclipse observable in France in 27 years, making it a highly anticipated event across the country.
Mbida explained that observers must use dedicated eclipse glasses, which are typically constructed from cardboard and fitted with protective solar filters. He noted that legitimate glasses carry the CE European conformity mark and specifically feature the ISO 12312-2 safety designation, which guarantees that the lenses block harmful solar radiation and prevent severe retinal burns.
Finding clear viewing locations
The total solar eclipse is expected to begin at around 7:20 pm, with its peak arriving approximately one hour later. Because the event takes place late in the day when the sun is low on the horizon, Mbida warned that anyone standing opposite a hill or a tall building risks having their view completely blocked.
To ensure observers secure an unobstructed view, Mbida recommended using the website eclipsemaps.xyz. The application features an interactive world map highlighting locations with clear horizons. By typing in a specific street address, users can determine the precise direction of the eclipse and view a visual simulation showing exactly how the event will appear from their location, including their own back garden.
Protecting camera sensors and equipment
In addition to eye protection, Mbida emphasized the need to preserve camera sensors when capturing photographs or video on mobile devices. He stated that smartphone sensors can burn if pointed directly at the sun without specialized filter attachments designed for mobile lenses.
For those planning to record the entire event from start to finish, Mbida suggested mounting phones or cameras on a tripod to keep the image stable. He added that dedicated astronomy enthusiasts could also opt for portable smart telescopes to track and view the eclipse.
Bonjour! La Matinale TF1 is the national morning news programme broadcast on TF1, France's major private television network. Total solar eclipses are rare celestial events where the moon passes directly between the Earth and the sun, momentarily obscuring the solar disc along the path of totality. The previous total solar eclipse visible from mainland France took place in August 1999.
