On Wednesday, August 12, 2026, the sky will treat us to an exceptional spectacle!
As the day draws to a close, the Moon will gradually move in front of the Sun, resulting in a partial solar eclipse visible from the Hautes-Alpes. In the Serre Ponçon valleys, the phenomenon will be particularly spectacular: the Sun will be very low on the horizon at the peak of the eclipse.
You don’t have to go very far to enjoy this celestial event: just find a high, unobstructed spot with a clear view to the west.
So, grab your eclipse glasses, a blanket, and your camera… and pick your spot!
What is a solar eclipse?
A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun and blocks all or part of the Sun’s disk.
On August 12, 2026, the eclipse will be total along part of its path, particularly in northern Spain. From the Hautes-Alpes, it will be partial: a large portion of the Sun will be obscured by the Moon, yet it will still be an impressive phenomenon to observe.
In the Serre Ponçon valleys, the eclipse will take place in the late afternoon, with the Sun very close to the horizon. That’s why orientation and terrain will be key to fully enjoying the spectacle.
Where can you watch the eclipse?
Look toward the west!
To watch the eclipse from the Serre Ponçon valleys, choose a spot:
- high up, to ensure an unobstructed view of the horizon;
- with a wide-open view to the west;
- away from trees, buildings, or hills that might block the Sun;
- that’s easily accessible and safe enough to stay there until nightfall.
The terrain plays a particularly important role for this eclipse. Even from an elevated vantage point, a mountain to the west could block the Sun while the eclipse is still in progress.
👉 To choose your viewing spot, use EclipseMap.xyz : this tool lets you assess the visibility of the eclipse from a specific location, taking terrain and the horizon into account.
Here are a few suggested viewing spots in the Serre Ponçon valleys
Le Colombis – paragliding launch site
Le Piolit – Hiking & Bivouacking
For the more adventurous, why not take this opportunity to get up high? A hike with a camping trip can let you experience the eclipse in an exceptional setting, far from the lights and the hustle and bustle.
⚠️ Warning: These locations are suggestions for inspiration and are not necessarily designated viewing sites. Always check the site’s accessibility, any restrictions, the weather, and safety conditions before setting out.
What time should you observe the eclipse?
The eclipse will take place in the late afternoon, around 8:00 p.m. in the Hautes-Alpes. In Gap, it will begin around 7:29 p.m., reach its peak around 8:23 p.m., and end around 8:45 p.m.
Times may vary by a few minutes depending on your viewing location.
👉 To find out the exact times from your viewing location, use theParis Observatory’s tool:
Calculate Eclipse Times – Paris Observatory
Note: The tool displays times based on the astronomical parameters of your location. To get the French time, be sure to add 2 hours to the time shown.
👉 To find the best viewing location based on terrain:
Choose Your Viewing Location – EclipseMap.xyz
How can you safely observe the eclipse?
Never look directly at the Sun with the naked eye, even when it is partially obscured by the Moon. Viewing the Sun without proper protection can cause serious eye damage.
To enjoy the spectacle safely:
- use only special eclipse viewing glasses that meet current safety standards;
- never look at the Sun through regular sunglasses;
- do not use binoculars or a telescope without a solar filter specifically designed for viewing the Sun;
- supervise children and ensure they use their protective gear correctly;
- if your eclipse glasses are scratched, damaged, or defective, do not use them.
Just because the Sun is low on the horizon or heavily obscured does not mean it is safe to look at it without protection.
What should you bring for your evening of stargazing?
If you choose a high-altitude spot or a hike, be sure to prepare for your outing!
In your bag:
👓 Special eclipse glasses
🥾 Hiking boots
🔦 Headlamp
🧥 Warm clothing
🧺 Blanket or mat to sit on
💧 Water and snacks
📱 Fully charged phone
🗺️ Map or hiking route if needed
And most importantly: plan to return before dark if you’re going on a hike.
Head for the heights… but stay safe!
Watching an eclipse from a mountaintop, a lookout point, or a remote spot in the mountains can be an unforgettable experience. But a beautiful view should never make you forget the safety rules.
Choose a route suited to your skill level, stay on the trails whenever possible, and don’t venture into exposed areas just to gain a few meters of visibility.
Night can fall quickly in the mountains: bring a headlamp and appropriate clothing.
And before you set out, be sure to check the weather and access conditions for the site.
The best tip: Pick your viewing spot in advance!
For this eclipse, the western horizon is your best ally. Find your viewing spot a few days ahead of time, make sure no terrain blocks the view of the sunset, and check the exact times for your location.
Extend the experience!
The eclipse will also be an opportunity to enjoy several events in the Hautes-Alpes: an evening of stargazing in Tallard, an “Apéro Éclipse Ride” on electric bikes , or even high-altitude viewing in SuperDévoluy. And to extend the adventure a few days later, join us on August 21 in Notre-Dame-du-Laus for our “Stars in the Valleys”, organized in partnership with the Baronnies Provençales Observatory. After the Sun, it’s time for the stars! ✨
Discover the Serre Ponçon Valleys
