Yellowknife resident Stephen Bedingfield, inspired by a 2003 broadcast of a total solar eclipse in Antarctica, embarked on a journey to witness as many eclipses as possible. Currently in Spain with his wife, he is chasing his 13th total solar eclipse, which marks his 23rd eclipse including partial ones, anticipated to last approximately two minutes.
Bedingfield likened the experience of a total solar eclipse to witnessing natural wonders like the Great Barrier Reef, Niagara Falls, and Mount Everest simultaneously. He emphasized the uniqueness and magnificence of the event, stating that there is nothing quite like it.
While a total solar eclipse will be visible in Greenland, Iceland, Spain, and northern Russia, along with a portion of Portugal on Wednesday, Canada will witness a partial solar eclipse where the moon partially obscures the sun. Bedingfield highlighted the celestial alignment of the sun, moon, and Earth during these phenomena.
Throughout his two decades of eclipse chasing, Bedingfield has built friendships and discovered a community of fellow eclipse enthusiasts. He described the shared excitement among eclipse chasers who travel globally to witness these events, immersing themselves in diverse cultures and experiences.
Bedingfield emphasized that beyond the brief duration of the eclipse, its impact on the environment is significant. He noted rapid temperature drops and changes in bird behavior, highlighting the immersive environmental experience that accompanies the celestial spectacle.
Christa Van Laerhoven, vice president of the Yukon Astronomical Society, emphasized the importance of using proper eye protection to view the eclipse safely. She recommended approved solar eclipse glasses or DIY alternatives like pinhole projectors, cautioning against looking directly at the sun during the eclipse due to its inherent dangers.
Van Laerhoven also dispelled the misconception that the sun is more hazardous during a solar eclipse, stressing that direct sun exposure is risky at all times. She advised viewers to avoid the temptation to gaze at the sun during a partial eclipse, likening the phenomenon to observing a bright crescent with a “bite taken out of it.”