Are you planning to watch the solar eclipse this weekend in France?
Up to 30% of the sun's surface will be covered by the moon. Several sky-gazing events are being hosted across France for the eclipse
The eclipse will start around 11am on Saturday, March 29
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A partial solar eclipse will occur in France on Saturday (March 29), bringing a rare and exciting sight to the skies.
It will begin at 11:00 (give or take a few minutes depending on where in France you are located) and last around 50 minutes.
The moon will cover up to 30% of the surface of the sun at the peak of the eclipse, easily visible on a day where heavy clouds are so far only forecast in the east.
The eclipse will not limit the brightness of the sun, however, so you may not even notice any changes unless you look up into the sky.
It will move away from the sun’s surface by early afternoon.
Partial solar eclipses happen roughly twice per year, but the impact of the eclipse is often unnoticeable, and it takes up to 90% of the sun's surface being eclipsed for people to recognise a change in brightness levels.
Safety equipment vital
Unlike several recent skyline spectacles, the partial eclipse will be visible for many people, and will be prominent across the entirety of the country.
Because it is a midday occurrence, it will not be necessary to find a place with low-light pollution to watch the eclipse.
However, if you are planning to have anything more than a passing glance at the phenomena, you need to wear special glasses with a protective filter.
Failure to do so – even if the sky is cloudy – can lead to burning of the retina and potential loss of vision.
Whilst you might not have such a pair close to hand, check if areas around you are hosting safe viewing events for the eclipse, as they will probably provide you with glasses as part of the admission.
In the south-west, for example, two events are being hosted in Haute-Garonne at the Cité de l'Espace in Toulouse and Balcon des étoiles in Latrape.
Most events are likely to be ticketed and require an admission fee, although some may be available for free.
Check online for events near you.
Read more: Did you see this strange blue spiral in the sky over France last night?
