Yellowknife resident Stephen Bedingfield, inspired by a total solar eclipse in Antarctica in 2003, has since made it his mission to chase eclipses worldwide. Accompanied by his wife, he recently embarked on his 13th total solar eclipse expedition in Spain, marking his 23rd eclipse overall, including partial ones. Bedingfield described the eclipse as a moment of unparalleled magnificence, comparing it to witnessing the Great Barrier Reef, Niagara Falls, and Mount Everest simultaneously.
While a total solar eclipse will be visible in Greenland, Iceland, Spain, northern Russia, and a portion of Portugal on Wednesday, Canada will only witness a partial solar eclipse with the moon partially obscuring the sun. Bedingfield emphasized the rarity and wonder of the celestial event, highlighting the perfect alignment of the sun, moon, and Earth.
Throughout his two decades of eclipse chasing, Bedingfield has formed connections within a community of fellow eclipse enthusiasts. He shared that these experiences have allowed him to explore different cultures and places worldwide, turning his eclipse chases into a diary of enriching adventures. Bedingfield noted that besides the visual spectacle, the eclipse also brings about environmental changes, such as sudden temperature drops and altered bird behavior.
Christa Van Laerhoven, the 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 a pinhole projector using common household items. Van Laerhoven debunked the misconception that the sun is more harmful during an eclipse, cautioning against direct sun gazing at any time.