This Saturday morning , March 29, 2025, a partial solar eclipse will be visible from Toulouse. The astronomical phenomenon – characterized by a partial occultation of the Sun by the Moon – will begin at 11:02 am.
According to data shared on all specialized websites, the eclipse is scheduled to peak at 11:51 a.m. and end at 12:43 p.m., with a total duration of around 1 hour 41 minutes. It’s important to note that throughout this time, only 17.4% of the solar disk will be occulted by the moon! At least 95% of the Sun will be obscured before the sky darkens. This weekend, therefore, there will be very little difference visible to the naked eye. However, precautions are still called for, as the phenomenon is not without its dangers.
Recommendations for enjoying the partial solar eclipse in complete safety
Let’s start with a reminder. A total solar eclipse occurs when the Moon comes between the Earth and the Sun, partially or totally blocking the sunlight that normally reaches our planet. This alignment only occurs during the new moon phase, and only when the three celestial bodies are on the same line. This is not the case for the phenomenon that awaits us on Saturday.
Since the eclipse will be partial, the Moon will never fully cover the solar disk. That’s why it’s still dangerous to look directly at the Sun without appropriate protection. You’ll need to opt for special CE-certified eclipse glasses, with an opacity index of 5 or more. In Toulouse, you can buy them at Ol’Optic, an independent optician located at 1 place Antonin Froidure. Or online from the Nature & Découvertes website.
As for the weather forecast, the météo France website predicts scattered rain throughout the morning.
Standard sunglasses should be avoided: they are not suitable for this type of phenomenon, nor are sunglasses, X-rays or other homemade filters. These solutions can cause irreversible damage to the retina! If you use optical instruments such as binoculars or telescopes, make sure they are fitted with special solar filters. If not, they should only be used by astronomy experts!
The next total solar eclipses will be visible in France in 2081 and 2090… Not sure we’ll be able to see them!