The upcoming total solar eclipse on August 12 marks a significant astronomical event for Spaniards. It’s the first total solar eclipse visible in mainland Spain since 1912 and the Canary Islands since 1959. Most Spaniards dreaming of such a spectacle are, until now, eclipse chasers, who travel worldwide to witness the Moon obscure the Sun for a fleeting moment of shadow.
Meet Leonor Ana Hernández: The Eclipse Hunter
One of the notable eclipse chasers is Leonor Ana Hernández. This amateur astronomer, scientific communicator, and astronomical illustrator has dedicated years to hunting eclipses. Her journey began in 1999 when she witnessed her first total solar eclipse in Hungary. Since then, she has traveled to see four total solar eclipses, each experience leaving a unique imprint on her memory.
How It All Started
Leonor’s passion for astronomy ignited in her childhood. “When my father discovered a nearby astronomy association, he encouraged me to join,” she recalls. This involvement sparked her curiosity about eclipses, driving her to save money and pursue opportunities to witness them. Her first expedition with fellow enthusiasts set the stage for her future adventures.
The Emotional Experiences
Her second eclipse in 2006, witnessed in Türkiye, was particularly intimate. Climbing a mountain with only a few friends, the peace of the surrounding silence left her in awe. “When it was over, tears of joy fell down my cheeks; I couldn’t contain them,” she shared, emphasizing the emotional impact of these celestial events.
The challenges of her next eclipse adventure were significant. In 2009, she traveled to China, where unexpected monsoon rains threatened their viewing. Despite the weather, a brief clearing allowed the group to catch a glimpse of the Moon. “It was almost magical; we managed to see it for a minute and a half,” Leo said, highlighting the unpredictability and wonder of eclipse chasing.
The Transformative 2017 Eclipse
Among all her eclipse experiences, the one from 2017 in the United States stands out. Unlike previous times, she chose not to prioritize photography. Instead, she lay down, focusing on observing and sketching what she saw. “Those minutes were some of the most beautiful I’ve experienced,” she stated, recalling how she adapted her eyesight to fully appreciate the intricate details of the solar corona.
The Essence of Eclipse Watching
For many, including Leonor, witnessing a total solar eclipse is an unforgettable experience. She describes the profound transformations that occur in nature—the sudden hush of animals, changes in temperature, and the stunning visuals of the solar corona. “These moments are etched in your memory and leave you wanting more,” she reflected, emphasizing the unique magic of the event.
Looking Ahead: Sharing the Joy of Eclipses
Surprisingly, Leonor won’t be chasing the upcoming eclipse. Instead, she plans to stay at the Astrohita Foundation Observatory in her community. “I want to ensure that everyone has a chance to experience even a partial eclipse,” she explained. Understanding that not everyone can travel, she aims to share the joy and educational aspect of eclipses:
“We believe everyone deserves to experience this wonderful phenomenon, even if it’s not total,” she said. Leonor expresses commitment to making this celestial event accessible, continuing her mission of spreading science and emotion through her work.
For her, the sacrifice of not traveling is worth it, as it offers countless others the chance to share in the beauty and wonder of the cosmos. As she eloquently put it, “It’s not just about seeing an eclipse; it’s about sharing that magnificent feeling with everyone.”