What it's like to chase solar eclipses around the world
For many, a total solar eclipse is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. But for a dedicated few, it's a deep passion.
Solar eclipses have become a thrilling pursuit for some enthusiasts, who leave no continent untouched in their quest to witness these awe-inspiring celestial events. Mark Griffiths, a dedicated eclipse chaser, has driven from Cheshire to Galicia to record the upcoming total solar eclipse across Europe, driven by an insatiable desire for more spectacular experiences.
He compares the anticipation leading up to the eclipse to the excitement of a World Cup match for football fans, admitting to being "quite sleep deprived" after a marathon drive.
Samantha Phillips-Brown and her husband Gregory have journeyed to Iceland to witness the total solar eclipse after experiencing its power during their first encounter near their home in upstate New York in 2023. They plan to explore eastern parts of Iceland, hoping to find a remote spot in the Westfjords peninsula for optimal viewing. Samantha, an obsessive travel planner, relies on Facebook groups and social media to gather information and advice.
Andrew Wills, another eclipse chaser, will be in Majorca to witness the event, drawn to its unique position in the path of totality. The total solar eclipse will be low on the horizon, offering a chance to capture the moment on video or camera. Andrew, who witnessed his first eclipse in Cornwall in 1999, marvels at the delicate balance of the solar system, appreciating the rare opportunity to witness such a phenomenon.
Written by urgent.news from BBC News's reporting — not their text. Machine-written; read the original for the full account.
