Eager skywatchers and casual vacationers packed their bags at Schiphol Airport on Tuesday afternoon, catching flights to Reykjavík ahead of a upcoming total solar eclipse.
For some travelers, traveling to Iceland was a carefully planned attempt to witness the rare astronomical event, while others simply realized their existing hiking trips happened to align with the occurrence.
Prime viewing locations
The total solar eclipse, where the moon completely blocks out the sun, will offer its best European views from parts of Spain and Iceland. Western Iceland is set to experience the longest duration of totality, lasting up to two minutes and 18 seconds.
The region is also attractive to travelers because its low light pollution offers clear conditions to observe a meteor shower that is expected to follow the eclipse.
Weather concerns and missing gear
Despite the high hopes of departing passengers, local weather forecasts for the Reykjavík area show potential precipitation and cloud cover on the day of the event, which could obscure the view entirely.
Some travelers faced logistical challenges before even leaving the ground, including booking accommodation on the wrong side of the island away from the path of maximum eclipse.
Others struggled to find protective gear in time, as demand led to nationwide shortages and eclipse glasses sell out across Amsterdam ahead of the event. Several passengers boarded their flights without protective eyewear, hoping to purchase safety glasses upon arrival in Iceland.
