Stephen Bedingfield from Yellowknife was inspired to start chasing eclipses after watching a total solar eclipse over Antarctica in 2003. He has now arrived in Spain with his wife to witness his 13th total solar eclipse, making it his 23rd eclipse overall, including partial ones. Bedingfield described a total solar eclipse as a breathtaking moment comparable to seeing iconic natural wonders like the Great Barrier Reef, Niagara Falls, and Mount Everest all at once.
The upcoming total solar eclipse will be visible in Greenland, Iceland, Spain, and parts of Russia and Portugal. While Canada will not witness the total eclipse, there will be a chance to see a partial solar eclipse, where the moon partially obscures the sun. Bedingfield emphasized the rarity and beauty of this celestial event, highlighting the perfect alignment of the sun, moon, and Earth.
In his two-decade journey as an eclipse chaser, Bedingfield has connected with a global community of fellow enthusiasts. He shared how the experience of chasing eclipses has not only allowed him to witness extraordinary natural phenomena but also immerse himself in diverse cultures around the world. Bedingfield noted the environmental changes during an eclipse, such as temperature drops and shifts in animal behavior, adding to the overall spectacle.
Christa Van Laerhoven, Vice President of the Yukon Astronomical Society, advised viewers in Yellowknife, Whitehorse, and Iqaluit to use proper eye protection when observing the partial eclipse. She recommended approved solar eclipse glasses or DIY alternatives like pinhole projectors. Van Loerhoven warned against directly looking at the sun during a solar eclipse, emphasizing the need for caution and proper protective measures.
The partial eclipse viewing times are as follows:
– Yellowknife: Peak at 10:42 a.m. with 28% coverage
– Whitehorse: Peak at 9:27 a.m. with 23% coverage
– Iqaluit: Peak at 1:24 p.m. with 61% coverage
As enthusiasts gear up to witness this celestial spectacle, the advice from experts is clear: protect your eyes and immerse yourself safely in the wonder of the cosmos.
