On August 21st, we witnessed one of the most unique natural phenomenons in the world, a total solar…
In March 2015, I watched my first-ever total solar eclipse in the Faroe Islands during what was also my first ever solo trip. Unfortunately, the weather that day was very Faroese – thick clouds rolled in just in time to obscure the moment of totality. But even without seeing it, I was captivated. Inspired by two eclipse chasers I met during my stay, I made a spontaneous decision: I had to witness a full eclipse properly. So, I booked a trip to Indonesia for the 2016 eclipse.
The following year, I flew solo to Indonesia and chose the little-known island of Pulau Belitung as my viewing spot. There, I met two fellow travellers, and together we spent three days exploring the island and scouting out the perfect place to experience the eclipse. On the big day, the skies were crystal clear – not a single cloud in sight. Totality was everything I’d hoped for and more. It was the most astonishing sight my eyes had ever witnessed.
That moment in Indonesia sealed my fate – I was officially hooked. The next year, I travelled to the United States for the Great American Eclipse of 2017. My friend Amanda and I roadtripped along the historic Route 66, eventually landing near Makanda, Illinois, for the eclipse. Once again, the skies cooperated, and we were treated to another breathtaking total eclipse.
So far, that eclipse in the US has been my last, but the yearning hasn’t faded. Experiencing totality is unlike anything else – otherworldly, humbling, and utterly awe-inspiring. I know I’ll chase the shadow again someday.