By Marco Hugo Barsotti MHB 
Welcome to the France Today and Central Milan news bulletin for Wednesday August 12, 2026, on FranceToday.com, in podcasting, via AI chatbot and on Medium Waves at 1575 kHz. In the newsroom in Nice Marco Hugo Barsotti, from Paris Rachel Costa.
News from France
Four tips for photographing the solar eclipse safely
The astronomical event of August 12 will be visible across all of France as a partial solar eclipse, while the zone of totality will be north of Spain. To capture this rare phenomenon, it is essential to follow some safety rules and photographic techniques.
First of all, it is indispensable to have a certified solar filter. Whatever the device, from DSLR to smartphone, the filter must be placed in front of the lens to reduce light, block UV rays and protect photographic sensors from irreversible damage. Filters have a density of 5.0 and are found in photography, astronomy or optics stores. If you already own a filter, you must verify that it has no scratches or holes; if you have difficulty obtaining one for a phone, you can make one with solar film or protective‑glass lenses, taking care to remove any exposed edge.
Second, it is advisable to mount the equipment on a stable support, such as a tripod, especially when using a telescope or binoculars. A steady support avoids blur caused by movement, while using a timer allows shooting without touching the camera. Before the phenomenon starts, it is useful to assess the Sun’s trajectory with apps like SunQuest or “The Sun’s Path,” to prepare alignment and check possible interference from local relief.
The third suggestion concerns preparing exposure settings. For DSLRs you need to test exposure on the non‑eclipsed Sun in advance, varying the aperture between f/8 and f/16 and choosing shutter speeds from 1/1000 to 1/4 second, depending on brightness. Smartphone users must manually set ISO sensitivity, focus and white balance. Online tools, such as Xavier Jubier’s site, allow calculating the ideal shutter time based on focal length and filter density. It is recommended to take a photo every two minutes starting ten minutes before the eclipse begins, until its completion, to reconstruct the entire evolution of the phenomenon.
Finally, for those who only have a smartphone, it is more practical to aim for atmospheric images rather than close‑ups of the Sun. Shooting photos with the landscape in the foreground – for example children watching the event or scenery lit by unusual shadows – captures the evocative effect of the eclipse, which will occur shortly before sunset, with the Sun only a few degrees above the horizon. Light patterns filtered through foliage or shadows cast on the ground provide creative material beyond the solar disc itself.
The article provides practical guidance for safely photographing the partial solar eclipse of August 12 2026, aimed at amateur photographers and astronomy enthusiasts.
Fact Check by Gemma4.
Solar eclipse: Octopus Energy urges British customers to cut electricity use to avoid firing gas power plants
On August 12 a powerful solar eclipse will darken much of the United Kingdom, blocking up to 95 % of sunlight in some regions. To cope with the abrupt drop in photovoltaic generation, Octopus Energy, a leading domestic electricity supplier, has issued an appeal to its users to reduce energy waste on the evening of the event. The company specifically advises not to run dishwashers and washing machines between 18:00 and 20:00, the period when families usually use these appliances.
According to the firm’s estimates, if enough households postpone using these appliances, the need to restart gas power plants – which would otherwise have to be switched on to compensate for the loss of solar energy – can be limited. The British national electricity system operator, Neso, has already put balancing measures in place for over a year, forecasting that the evening demand peak will shift later than usual: many citizens will go out to watch the eclipse and then return home to cook, clean and watch television.
At the continental level, the night of the eclipse is expected to cause a reduction in electricity production of 9.7 GW between 19:15 and 21:30. Analysts at RBC Capital Markets warn that this dip will increase pressure on an already strained grid, especially given the heatwaves that have forced nuclear and coal plants to cut operating capacity because of high cooling‑water temperatures.
In this context, Octopus Energy’s appeal fits into a broader demand‑management strategy aimed at keeping supply stable without resorting to additional fossil‑fuel sources during the eclipse. The goal is to ensure that the activation of gas plants remains an exception rather than a systemic necessity, thereby avoiding further environmental impact in a period already marked by high energy consumption.
Note: the article is based on press releases from Octopus Energy, data from The Guardian and analysis from RBC Capital Markets.
Fact Check by Gemma4.
Editorial by Rachel – The dirty‑laundry eclipse
I’m reading you my editorial for today.
We really wonder whether the biggest light blockage of the century could drive an energy supplier crazier than a prime‑time soap opera? Octopus Energy, with the dignity of a conductor who refuses to hear the violin of laundry, asks customers to turn off washing machines, as if a bullet of sun could blow up gas power plants.
The discourse is almost poetic: “save energy, otherwise we’ll go back to burning gas.” Yet the same grid is already stretched by heatwaves, nuclear plants cutting output and a water‑flow crisis. Isn’t it more logical to invest in storage capacity rather than ask Madame Washing‑Machine to go on vacation?
Ironically, the notice arrives with a cookie‑policy preamble longer than Dante’s poetry. How many more times do press releases offer “energy‑watch” advice only to fill us with consent windows that we don’t even accept at dinner? And the lingering question is: who really pays the bill, the citizen or the giant of IT protocols?
In the end, the recommendation not to run the spin cycle for two hours collides with the reality of an electricity market that perhaps should ask itself whether it is the real “eclipse”: that black hole that swallows transparency and leaves us in the darkness of responsibility.
Koan of the day
A monk asked the Master: “If an eclipse hides the sun for a moment, is it right to punish washing machines with a fast?”
The Master replied: “The sun hides to show itself, but the washing machine has its cycle; punishing the cycle is like blaming the rain for wetting the earth.”
The monk persisted: “Then, where do we find the true energy that never goes out?”
The Master concluded: “In the silence of those who have never turned on the washing machine, because the only light that counts is the one that comes from seeing the bill under the house.”
But let’s return to the news.
Nvidia teams up with six finance giants to mobilise over $500 billion in support of customers
The graphics‑processor‑specialised group has signed a memorandum of understanding with six of the biggest asset managers – Blackstone, Apollo, BlackRock, KKR, Brookfield and Goldman Sachs – to create financing platforms intended to raise more than $500 billion from third‑party investors.
The money raised will be used to fund Nvidia customers’ massive investments in artificial‑intelligence and related infrastructure sectors. At the time of the announcement, the company emphasized that it will work with the six partners to set up sizable, competitively‑priced capital reserves dedicated to supporting demand for Nvidia products and services.
In the broader context, the AI race has generated for the “hyperscalers” – Alphabet, Oracle, Microsoft, Amazon – spending of hundreds of billions of dollars, traditionally financed through bond issuances and capital raises. In 2025 stock markets saw Medicare raise $30 billion, Amazon $15 billion and, more recently, Alphabet forecasting a $20‑25 billion issuance. Total bond issuances by major tech operators topped $190 billion in the first half of 2026, marking a 79 % year‑over‑year increase.
Jensen Huang, co‑founder and CEO of Nvidia, described his GPUs as “an asset to invest in, with the lowest cost per token, the highest revenue and the longest lifespan.” The new deal, according to analyst Stephen Innes of Spi AM, represents “a significant operation compared with AI standards.”
The initiative, while broadening GPU accessibility without cutting prices, makes future demand more sensitive to credit conditions, raising questions about the real cost of deploying AI in an increasingly indebted market.
At the time of the announcement, Nvidia shares were up about one percent in pre‑market trading on Wall Street. The company will release its next quarterly results on August 26, after markets close.
This article reports statements from BFM Bourse on August 11 2026, translated and adapted for the Italian press.
Fact Check by Gemma4.
Lenny Kravitz cancels Bordeaux concert 24 hours before debut: fans call it a nuisance
The American rock icon had to postpone at the last minute his show scheduled for Tuesday August 11 at the Arkéa Arena in Floirac, near Bordeaux. In a statement posted on Instagram by Gérard Drouot Productions, it was announced that Lenny Kravitz is “unable to take the stage” for health reasons.
The production company clarified that the concert has not been cancelled permanently, but moved two days later: the new date is Thursday August 13, with the same time and venue. Tickets already purchased remain valid; anyone unable to attend can request a refund at the point of sale. No further details were provided about the artist’s health, who only thanked the public for their understanding.
The news sparked strong disappointment on social media. Many fans expressed regret at having to rearrange travel, some have already resold their seats, while others sent messages of speedy recovery, also fearing the high temperatures expected for the new appointment.
This is the second episode of that summer tour: in July Kravitz had already cancelled a concert in the Somme due to adverse weather conditions. Despite the setbacks, the artist seems intent on keeping the rest of the tour, with the Bordeaux date now confirmed for August 13, provided his health allows.
This update concerns the artist’s decision to postpone the Bordeaux concert because of health problems, a move already experienced earlier this summer for unrelated reasons.
Fact Check by Gemma4.
Welcome to the international bulletin from FranceToday and Radio Central Milan for Wednesday August 12 2026 on FranceToday.com in podcasting and on Medium Waves at 1575 kHz.
From Paris I am Rachel Costa.
Trump confirms secret Air Force One departure after NATO summit
U.S. President Donald Trump said he changed aircraft on board the state plane after the NATO summit, fearing an Iranian attack. The exchange operation, which took place in Turkey, involved transferring to a more discreet plane, outlining a new chapter in the long‑standing dispute between Washington and Tehran. Security experts say this episode shows the vulnerability of world leaders to air threats, especially amid increasingly heated Middle‑East tensions.
Oil prices rise due to attacks in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Oman
Attacks by Houthi groups on merchant vessels in the Red Sea and Gulf of Oman have heightened fears of disruptions to oil transport routes. The risk of blockades in the area was immediately reflected in higher Brent and WTI prices, feeding uncertainty in global energy markets. Analysts and shipping companies are closely monitoring the situation, fearing that a prolonged conflict could push prices to new seasonal highs.
The dollar is losing value: the failure of the historic U.S.–Japan intervention
In an attempt to curb the yen’s collapse, U.S. and Japanese authorities launched a coordinated intervention in currency markets that proved ineffective. Despite massive dollar purchases, the yen kept weakening, raising concerns among investors about the possible effects of a weaker currency on global financial stability. Economists warn that this dynamic could push central banks to adopt more drastic measures in the coming months.
Nvidia partners with six major investors to fund artificial intelligence: $500 billion in sight
Graphics‑chip giant Nvidia announced a partnership with major investment funds, including BlackRock and KKR, to create a $500 billion fund aimed at supporting artificial‑intelligence development. The goal is to build a financing ecosystem capable of providing capital to startups and large companies building data‑centers and AI applications. Market observers see the pact as a strong signal of confidence in the sector’s long‑term growth.
Google appoints new head for DeepMind, aiming to boost the race against OpenAI and Anthropic
Google has placed the leadership of its DeepMind research division in the hands of Koray Kavukcuoglu, an AI veteran known for his deep‑learning expertise. The new leader will be tasked with accelerating the development of next‑generation AI models to maintain Google’s industry leadership, where rivals such as OpenAI and Anthropic compete. Analysts predict the appointment will strengthen Google’s efforts to create safer and more competitive systems.
Gas price in France: Bercy foresees a rise for consumers starting in May
The French Ministry of Economy warned consumers that, due to recent oil‑price hikes and tensions in the Middle East, gas bills will increase starting next May. The cost rise will stem from a new contract indexing system that ties gas prices to the international market. Consumer associations are calling for protective measures for low‑income families, while the government promises targeted interventions to contain the burden.
OnlyFans welcomes a new investor: plans for IPO and financial products for creators
A new investor, known for previous tech‑sector experience, has disclosed OnlyFans’ financial results and the possibility of an upcoming initial public offering. The exclusive interview indicates the company is evaluating launching financial products aimed at content creators, with the goal of facilitating access to credit and banking services. Industry analysts believe these moves could further expand the user base and solidify OnlyFans’ position in the global subscription‑platform market.
Weather Paris, Monaco Monte Carlo and Milan for Wednesday August 12 2026
Paris – a slow‑burning heatwave
In Paris the morning is bright with temperatures around 21 °C and a gentle 15 km/h breeze from the south. In the afternoon the thermometer climbs quickly to 35 °C, making the humidity feel seven degrees above normal. The wind stays moderate, with gusts up to 20 km/h, but there is no threat of rain. The sky remains clear, offering a sunset at 33 °C and a light 10 km/h breeze. Night brings a mild 26 °C, with steady winds around 10 km/h. As expert Régis Crêpet notes, the picture is one of high pressure and atmospheric stability all day.
Monaco Monte Carlo – blazing sun and sea breezes
In Monaco the morning sun shines on 29 °C temperatures, accompanied by a calm 15 km/h breeze from the east‑northeast. During the afternoon the thermometer reaches 32 °C and the heat index hits 42, while the wind stays light at 10 km/h with occasional south‑west gusts. The evening is pleasant with 30 °C and a 10 km/h marine breeze, with no trace of rain. Night drops to 28 °C, with 10 km/h winds keeping the air fresh. No precipitation is forecast for the whole day. The atmospheric profile remains dominated by clear skies and a total absence of clouds.
Milan – clear sky and rising temperatures
In Milan the day starts with mostly clear skies and temperatures around 29 °C, while the wind is almost non‑existent, shifting to 2 km/h from the east‑northeast. The thermometer continues climbing, peaking at 34 °C in the afternoon, with a slight east‑southeast breeze of about 2 km/h. Late afternoon temperatures stay near 33 °C and the wind remains weak, always under 3 km/h. Evening settles around 31 °C, with light breezes from the southeast. Night brings a low of 28 °C, with a barely perceptible 2 km/h breeze from the southwest. As expert Daniele Berlusconi of 3BMeteo points out, no precipitation is expected and the sun will remain dominant through Ferragosto.
Rachel’s Weather Editorial – When the climate blames the climate
It’s curious how every time the temperature passes 30 °C, weather journalists pull out the big climate‑change book, as if a thermometer were a gold coin for their theories. Really, we wonder: have all the poets of the time invented rain just to have an excuse to cite the climate crisis, or is it really that simple?
Yet, let’s grant ourselves a moment of reflection: if the sun shines and the sky is clear, why can’t we simply enjoy the warmth without having to mention global warming in every sentence? The questions remain hanging, while the climate reality continues its yes‑or‑no, but viewers seem to have already bought a ticket to the grand performance of change.
Koan of the day
Monk: “The sun burns and the wind caresses, but the rain does not fall.”
Zhaozhou: “If the sky is clear, then the heart is serene; if the wind is gentle, then the mind is calm. And that’s today’s weather.
Sign-off.
Online, on X and Mastodon, on all smart speakers and on medium wave, this is FranciaOggi with Centrale Milano 1575 kilohertz.