Time stands still

The main focus of the cruise to Iceland was to witness the total solar eclipse, but the weather was causing problems for the astronomers on board who were responsible for advising the captain where to position the ship.  It was touch and go for most of the afternoon with clouds obscuring the sun, but satellite images had predicted a break in the clouds along the coast of Greenland, which thankfully we found. We were very grateful for the skill involved both of the prediction and the navigation to the exact spot we needed to get a clear view of the heavens as the moon passed in front of the sun, exactly on time.  

Time stands still

The moon is eating the sun,
Nibbling slowly from the right, 
Taking its time, no rush, 
What's an hour on its path through the heavens?
Just for an instant, at the point of total eclipse,
It seems to pause, its shadow
Allowing a glimpse of a wispy corona
Dotted with pink Bailey's Beads, 
Then moves on with a flash of brilliance. 


© Copyright 2026. Chris Auger. All Rights Reserved.

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