Witnessing the total solar eclipse over the Channel Islands in 1999 was a “life-changing moment” for Dr Chris Reilly. Since then, the scientist has become a “part-time eclipse tracker”, travelling around the world to experience total solar eclipses.
Dr Reilly was part of the BBC team that broadcast Eclipse Live in 1999, bringing the rare astronomical event to millions of viewers.
He had originally planned to watch the total solar eclipse from Cornwall, but was sent to Alderney the day before. He described witnessing the eclipse there as “the most amazing experience of my life”.
Alderney was the final stop in the British Isles to experience the spectacle. Alongside broadcaster Jamie Theakston, Dr Reilly appeared on a BBC programme watched by 13 million people. He said seeing daylight turn to darkness during a total solar eclipse “really makes the hairs on the back of your neck stand up and is pretty special”.
Source: www.bbc.co.uk