How the spot finder works
The tool resolves one location, calculates the next visible eclipse once, then retrieves mapped viewpoints and open-terrain features inside the selected radius. Candidate scores reuse the same eclipse calculation, which keeps the search fast and consistent.
Every result card shows terrain type, distance, eclipse coverage, cloud forecast when available, and the Sun's altitude and direction. The score helps compare candidates, but it does not confirm public access or safe conditions on the ground.
What the score measures
| Signal | Why it matters | Used in score |
|---|---|---|
| Eclipse coverage | More of the solar disc is hidden | Yes |
| Sun altitude | A higher Sun is less easily blocked | Yes |
| Terrain profile | Viewpoints and open horizons are prioritised | Yes |
| Distance | Closer options are easier to reach | Yes |
| Weather | Cloud can decide the final view | Yes, inside the reliable forecast window |
Terrain types we prioritise
- Mapped viewpoints: places recorded as viewpoints and usually intended to provide a wide view.
- Summits and observation towers: potentially broad sightlines, but access and opening hours need checking.
- Cliffs and capes: useful coastal horizons, with extra care required around exposed edges.
- Beaches: often excellent for a low western Sun, especially for the evening eclipse visible from France on 12 August 2026.
Why the horizon matters in France
The 12 August 2026 eclipse is a deep partial eclipse across mainland France. At maximum, the Sun is low in the west in many cities, so a clear horizon can make more difference than a small change in obscuration.
Use the ranked list as a starting point, open the map, check the exact westward sightline and visit the location beforehand at a similar time of day. Never enter private land and always keep a safe alternative nearby.
Data, privacy and limits
Address lookup happens only after you submit the form. Results are cached to reduce requests to OpenStreetMap services. The tool does not continuously track your position and does not require browser geolocation.
Inside the short-range forecast window, the score includes the latest hourly cloud forecast from Open-Meteo. If that provider is temporarily unavailable, the tool falls back to astronomy and terrain rather than hiding every result. Forecasts still change, so check again before travelling.
Scientific references
References used for eclipse dates, safety guidance and local calculations.