Being an eclipse chaser

Many people have hobbies or interests, and some have deep passions in life. For eclipse chasers, the total solar eclipse becomes that profound passion. Our lives often revolve around being within the path of totality. We travel with purpose and meaning, driven by the desire to experience this wondrous moment again and again. Over time, we connect with fellow chasers, forming incredible bonds. Eclipse chasing transcends a mere hobby or interest; it is a way of life.

While many are keen to witness a total eclipse, it’s not until you experience it firsthand that you truly grasp how overwhelming and powerful totality is. The urge to see another eclipse is compelling – some might even call it a “Total Addiction.” It’s a strong, powerful urge that proves unshakable.

Not everyone who experiences a total solar eclipse will go on to become an eclipse chaser. Some wish to but are limited by their circumstances. Others deeply enjoy the experience and are content with having witnessed this once-in-a-lifetime event. However, those who feel that urge very strongly will always find a way to see the next one. And when obstacles arise, preventing us from traveling into the path of totality, or when sneaky clouds block our view, the distress can be profound.

Anyone can become an eclipse chaser. While those most often featured in the media tend to be retired men with a science background, eclipse chasers truly come from all walks of life. Our shared totality experience is what binds us, regardless of our culture, background, language, or beliefs.

Fun fact: Eclipse chasers often refer to those who have never before seen a total eclipse as an “eclipse virgin.”

WHAT ECLIPSES MEAN TO ECLIPSE CHASERS

For many of us, the decision to become an eclipse chaser isn’t a conscious choice; it simply becomes a fundamental part of who we are. There’s a powerful drive to do everything possible to get into the path of totality for every future total eclipse, to once again stand in the Moon’s shadow.

Solar eclipses from 2010 to 2060. (c) Michael Zeiler.

This sentiment is widely shared within our community. Immediately following our first total eclipse, many of us become chasers—even if we didn’t know such a pursuit existed. We’re determined to re-experience that profound moment as often as possible, often going anywhere—literally anywhere—to experience totality. This pursuit offers incredible life experiences and a chance to travel with deep purpose. We gain insights into diverse cultures on a level that might otherwise be missed, and we connect with people in locations we would never have visited were it not for the path of totality.

As chasers, we know that for every future total eclipse, we’ll do all we can to get ourselves into the path of totality. We’re not alone in this feeling; through surveys and interviews with countless fellow chasers, it’s clear this deep connection is a common experience. Here are a few other chasers sharing what eclipses mean to them and how it defines them:

Together, we form a connected and passionate eclipse chasing community. Over time, many of us naturally apply our existing skills to this shared passion. For example, Kate leverages our expertise in psychology and research to better understand and articulate this incredible experience, helping others grasp its unique significance. She also uses her clinical and consulting skills, change management, community development, and strategic planning expertise to assist communities in preparing for eclipses.

Across our community, individuals contribute their diverse skills in myriad ways—from mastering eclipse photography and weather prediction to creating detailed maps, producing documentaries, crafting artwork, and publishing books. This collective effort has led to the development of a rich array of resources, allowing newcomers and veterans alike to benefit from our combined knowledge and experiences.

You can learn more about what it means to be an eclipse chaser in Total Addiction: The Life of an Eclipse Chaser. It’s a truly remarkable global community, and we cherish being a part of it.