Just days before the August 12th solar eclipse, the French Astronomy Association (AFA) is sounding the alarm: a booklet sold at newsstands, accompanied by cardboard eclipse glasses, raises serious doubts about their compliance. No manufacturer is identified, no indication of origin is given, and no guarantee of actual protection is provided. This publication is what has triggered the astronomers' concern.
With the eclipse expected to be total in northern Spain, near-total in southwestern France, and partial elsewhere, the issue of certified eclipse glasses is becoming crucial. Direct observation of the Sun without proper protection can cause irreversible retinal damage. Only the ISO 12312-2:2015 standard guarantees sufficient safety.
The AFA had already reported a shortage of reliable eclipse glasses. Then it discovered the offending booklet: instructions only in English, no CE marking, and no manufacturer's contact information. The association alerted the DGCCRF (French Directorate General for Competition Policy, Consumer Affairs and Fraud Control) before allowing the authorities to continue their investigation.
On July 23, the Ministries of Economy and Health reiterated the four essential requirements: CE marking, ISO 12312-2 standard, instructions in French, and contact information for the manufacturer or importer. Around forty retailers are now being inspected.
The major risk remains last-minute panic buying. The government anticipates stock shortages and is increasing its public health warnings. The AFA (French Association of Solar Energy Producers) insists: "Don't buy just anything online." During the 2024 American solar eclipse, several models were withdrawn due to a lack of certification.
 Frank Verain
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07/08/2026 | 
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