Total Eclipse: What a Difference an Airplane Makes

Rare celestial event won't be seen again in North America until 2044.

Monday, August 26, 2024 at 10:26 AM ET

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North America will not see another total eclipse until 2044, making the one that occurred on April 8 a special event for many. [iStock]

Key Takeaways:

The author successfully leveraged his private plane to find clear skies and optimal viewing conditions for the April 2024 total solar eclipse in Jackman, Maine, avoiding the cloud cover that hindered many ground-bound observers.
He strategically chose his viewing location based on research into totality duration and airport availability, highlighting the flexibility and advantage of private aviation for chasing unique events.
The eclipse itself was a profound, emotional, and awe-inspiring experience, described with vivid details like the 360-degree sunset effect and the striking "diamond ring" phenomenon.
The article emphasizes that aviation perfectly complemented the celestial spectacle, allowing the author to experience a deep sense of wonder in both flight and the rare total eclipse.

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It was at 5,500 feet somewhere over Vermont when I received the text from my friends Paul and Marla. It was a photo of an overcast sky in Niagara Falls, New York. This was on the morning (April 8) of the last total eclipse North America will experience until 2044. They had declined a ride with me in my Bonanza because they booked a nonrefundable hotel room and wanted to road trip it with their dog.

A mistake as it turned out.

Ben Younger

Ben Younger is a TV and film writer/director, avid motorcyclist and surfer—but it’s being a pilot that he treats as a second profession. Find him on Instagram @thisisbenyounger.