{
  "id": 331990,
  "title": "What it's like to chase solar eclipses around the world",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/09/what-its-like-to-chase-solar-eclipses-around-the-world",
  "topic": "science",
  "section": "Science",
  "published": "2026-08-09T01:31:41.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "BBC News",
    "slug": "bbc-news",
    "url": "https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cd69wn5ny3eo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "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.\n\nSamantha 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.\n\nAndrew 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.",
  "summary": "For many, a total solar eclipse is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. But for a dedicated few, it's a deep passion.",
  "key_points": [
    "Dedicated eclipse chasers traverse continents to witness total solar eclipses",
    "Samantha Phillips-Brown and Gregory chase eclipse after first experience in 2023",
    "Andrew Wills captures low-horizon total solar eclipse in Majorca"
  ],
  "editors_take": "For some enthusiasts, chasing solar eclipses has become a lifestyle that fuels their desire for unique experiences and deepens their appreciation for the celestial world's intricate balance.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "BBC Science",
        "title": "What it's like to chase solar eclipses around the world",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/09/what-its-like-to-chase-solar-eclipses-around-the-world-332813",
        "published": "2026-08-09T01:31:41.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}