Eclipse chasers: When chasing totality becomes a way of life
The world of eclipse chasing is a captivating one, and for some, it's a family affair. Take the Kho family, for instance, who have been captivated by the phenomenon of total solar eclipses for generations. Jared Kho, a 37-year-old 'second-generation eclipse chaser', has been travelling the globe to witness these celestial events since 2012, following in the footsteps of his parents, Janet Tay and Koh Joo Beng. Their shared passion for astronomy and travel has led them on an extraordinary journey, capturing the beauty of the cosmos and creating unforgettable memories.
Jared's first encounter with a total solar eclipse was aboard a ship in the South Pacific in 2012, an experience that ignited his lifelong fascination. Since then, he has witnessed four total solar eclipses, with the upcoming August 12th event marking his fifth. This time, he plans to watch it from a ship sailing off La Coruña, Spain, strategically positioned to offer a clear view of the Sun, which will be just 10 degrees above the horizon shortly before sunset. This choice of location is not arbitrary; it's a calculated move to avoid the logistical challenges of land-based viewing, such as heavy traffic and scarce accommodation.
The Kho family's dedication to eclipse chasing is remarkable. Jared's parents, a retired electrical engineer and an accountant, later pursued a master's degree in astronomy, showcasing their enduring interest in the field. Jared, a public healthcare manager in Singapore, shares their enthusiasm, describing himself as a 'second-generation eclipse chaser'. His mother meticulously plans each expedition, booking flights and accommodations for stays lasting one or two weeks, while his father is responsible for the equipment, packing cameras, lenses, and solar filters to capture the eclipse in all its glory. They also bring 360-degree cameras and drones to document the surrounding landscapes.
The Kho family's travels have taken them to various locations, including the South Pacific in 2012, Idaho Falls, Idaho, in 2017, Exmouth, Australia, in 2023, and Kerrville, Texas, in 2024. Jared emphasizes that each eclipse experience is unique, influenced by the locations and the weather conditions. His mother's account of the 2024 Texas eclipse, with its strong winds, billowing clouds, and heavy rain, highlights the unpredictable nature of these events, making each one a distinct adventure.
Beyond the scientific fascination, eclipses have a profound impact on human emotions and social behaviour. Researchers are increasingly studying how eclipses affect human emotions, social behaviour, and people's relationships with science. A study involving over 1,300 people during the 2024 total solar eclipse revealed exceptionally high levels of awe, with many participants still describing those feelings months later. Some recalled crying, falling silent, or struggling to express the experience in words, underscoring the profound emotional impact of witnessing a total solar eclipse.
Another study, published in The Journal of Positive Psychology in 2025, found that people who experienced totality as part of a group reported stronger positive emotions, greater feelings of awe, and a deeper sense of connection with others compared to those who watched alone. Jared, reflecting on the experience, notes that the alignment of celestial bodies reminds us of our insignificance in the vastness of the universe, prompting a reevaluation of our priorities and a heightened appreciation for the limited time we have on this planet.
In conclusion, the Kho family's journey into eclipse chasing exemplifies how a shared passion can lead to a lifetime of extraordinary experiences. Their dedication to capturing the beauty of the cosmos and their commitment to exploring the emotional and social aspects of these events make their story not only fascinating but also a testament to the power of human curiosity and the enduring allure of the unknown.
