Witnessing a total solar eclipse is an unforgettable experience that leaves you in awe of the universe’s celestial wonders. My love and I have been fortunate enough to chase the path of totality twice, first in 2017 and then again in 2024. I’ll share our incredible journeys and explain why everyone should make an effort to experience a solar eclipse at least once in their lifetime.
Our 2017 Solar Eclipse Adventure:
In 2017, we flew into Denver and made our way to Wyoming, eager to catch the solar eclipse. Despite our best efforts to reach Casper, WY, we found ourselves rushing against time and ultimately had to settle for a spot on the side of the road. As the moon began to obscure the sun, we noticed the temperature drop and the sky darken, creating an eerie twilight effect. The 360-degree sunset that surrounded us was breathtaking, and the experience left us feeling humbled and inspired.
Preparing for the 2024 Solar Eclipse:
After our incredible experience in 2017, we knew we had to witness another total solar eclipse. This time, I did extensive research to find the best location along the path of totality. I discovered that the duration of totality varies depending on how close you are to the center of the path, with some cities offering a longer viewing time than others. We decided on Dallas, Texas, for the April 8th, 2024 solar eclipse, as it promised a stunning 4 minutes and 21 seconds of totality!
Our 2024 Texas Eclipse Experience:
We drove down to Ennis, TX, which was even closer to the center of the path of totality, to maximize our viewing experience. The anticipation was building as we waited for the midday wonder, armed with our safe solar-viewing glasses. As the moon slowly covered the sun, we watched in amazement as the sky darkened and the temperature dropped. When totality hit, we removed our glasses and marveled at the sun’s ethereal corona and the shimmering solar flares dancing around the moon’s silhouette. It was a moment of pure magic that we’ll cherish forever.
Getting Ready:
The beginning when everyone was loosing it:
Almost There! (also, this was on a Pixel 8 Pro which is much better than my 2017 phone)
This is where we stared in awe…
And then it was ending leaving us with unexpected feelings
Nerdy Stuff About What Happened: I couldn’t believe the experience and seeing the science materialize. As the moon gradually slid across the face of the sun, we noticed a subtle change in the atmosphere. The air around us grew cooler, and an eerie twilight began to descend upon the landscape. Initially, the sunlight remained incredibly bright, defying the moon’s advancing shadow. However, as the eclipse progressed, the darkness deepened, and we marveled at how even the tiniest sliver of the sun could still illuminate the Earth. The sky took on an otherworldly quality, with colors shifting in ways we had never witnessed before. As totality approached, we noticed strange shadows and light patterns dancing across the ground, as if nature itself was preparing for this celestial event. The wildlife seemed to sense the impending darkness, with birds falling silent and cows appearing confused by the sudden shift in their daily rhythm. When the moon finally covered the sun entirely, we were treated to a breathtaking sight: the sun’s ethereal corona, a shimmering halo of light, surrounded the moon’s silhouette. Solar flares, like celestial fireworks, danced along the edges of the moon, creating a mesmerizing display that left us in awe of the cosmic forces at play. For those brief moments, we found ourselves immersed in a surreal world, where the familiar was transformed into something extraordinary, reminding us of the wonders that exist beyond our everyday experiences.
Exploring the Texan Flavors:
One of the highlights of our 2024 eclipse trip was the opportunity to immerse ourselves in the rich Texan culture. We made a stop at Buc-ee’s, a iconic Texas convenience store chain, where we indulged in delicious local snacks and treats while waiting for the eclipse. The combination of the celestial spectacle and the unique Texan flavors made for an unforgettable experience.
Flying Back from Texas, we were humbled by the uninterrupted sun yet again.
Why Everyone Should Chase a Solar Eclipse:
Witnessing a total solar eclipse is a humbling reminder of our place in the universe and the incredible beauty of nature. It’s an experience that transcends age, culture, and background, bringing people together in a shared moment of wonder. The feeling of standing in the moon’s shadow, watching the sun’s corona shimmer in the darkened sky, is simply indescribable. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime event that everyone should strive to experience at least once.
Upcoming Solar Eclipses:
If you missed the 2017 and 2024 solar eclipses, don’t worry! There are plenty of opportunities to catch this celestial wonder in the coming years. Some notable upcoming solar eclipses include:
- August 12, 2026: Total solar eclipse visible from the Arctic, Greenland, Iceland, and Spain
- August 2, 2027: Total solar eclipse visible from Morocco, Spain, Algeria, Libya, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Yemen, and Somalia
- July 22, 2028: Total solar eclipse visible from Australia, New Zealand, and Chile
Start planning your solar eclipse adventure today and prepare to be amazed by the universe’s incredible wonders!
Conclusion:
Chasing the path of totality has been one of the most rewarding and awe-inspiring experiences of our lives. The 2017 and 2024 solar eclipses have left an indelible mark on our hearts and minds, reminding us of the beauty and mystery of the cosmos. We encourage everyone to seek out this incredible phenomenon, whether it’s in your own backyard or across the globe. Trust us, it’s an experience you’ll never forget!
