Updated at 10.50pm
FOR SOME OF us, stuck on Earth, the view of this morning’s solar eclipse was far from spectacular.
Then again, this being Ireland, we could probably have predicted that.
As you might expect, the view from above the clouds – far out over the Atlantic Ocean was much, much better.
Scientists from Trinity, Aberystwyth University and Hawaii set out aboard an Air Corps CASA plane this morning to document the rare phenomenon.
Speaking ahead of the voyage, TCD physics professor Peter Gallagher said it was being organised to enhance our knowledge of the Sun, and how variations in its solar output affect us.
We are working with researchers at the University of Hawaii and Aberystwyth University, and will be flying digital cameras on board the plane to take high resolution images of the solar atmosphere. This will help us better understand the fundamental physics of the atmosphere and learn how it affects us here on Earth.
Gallagher and Air Corps pilot Lt Col Kevin O’Ceallaigh documented their journey on Twitter – and the Defence Forces’ photographers were also on hand to capture the sight.
Their photos, we’re sure you’ll agree, are pretty impressive.
For more, check out the full Air Corps photo set on Flickr.
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