As the Principality prepares for the upcoming solar eclipse scheduled for late afternoon on August 12, local authorities have issued a series of vital recommendations and warnings to ensure public safety during the astronomical event.
The solar eclipse will be observable on Wednesday, August 12, arriving in the late afternoon between 7:30 PM and 9:10 PM, with maximum observation expected around 8:25 PM in Monaco and the surrounding Alpes-Maritimes region.
Essential Eye Protection and Safety Warnings
Officials emphasize that observing the sun with the naked eye or without proper protection - even for a very brief moment - can cause irreversible damage to the retina, ultimately leading to vision loss.
To watch the sun safely, individuals must wear specially designed glasses bearing the CE marking and conforming to the ISO 12312-2 standard. These certified glasses are available through opticians, pharmacies, and specialized stores. Authorities explicitly warn that standard sunglasses, even those with very dark tints, offer no protection whatsoever when viewing an eclipse. Furthermore, special attention and supervision should be given to children during the observation.
Post-Observation Guidance
Medical experts advise that anyone experiencing persistent visual symptoms following the eclipse - such as blurred vision, diminished visual acuity, or the appearance of a dark spot in their field of vision - should consult an ophthalmologist promptly.