LaVerne Biser, a 105-year-old retired plane designer from Texas, has been an avid “eclipse chaser” since 1963 when he witnessed his first solar eclipse in Maine. Since then, he has traveled the world with his late wife in pursuit of viewing as many solar eclipses as possible. The last eclipse he watched with his wife was in 2017, and he is now preparing to view his 13th total solar eclipse on Monday.
Biser’s interest in astronomy began in his high school science classes in the 1930s, which eventually led to a career in designing airplanes and a lifelong passion for viewing solar eclipses. He has travelled to various locations, including Brazil, the Black Sea, and the Virgin Islands, to witness the best viewpoints for different eclipses. Despite his old age, Biser’s enthusiasm for eclipses remains strong, and he is determined to capture what could potentially be his last eclipse on camera.
Biser’s daughter, Carol Biser Barlow, has also been influenced by her father’s love for eclipses. She recalls being taken on road trips to different states and countries to witness the astronomical phenomenon, and even selected her wedding date based on her father’s eclipse-chasing schedule. Barlow is hosting her father for his 13th eclipse and is excited to share this experience with him as he turns 106 in June.
As Biser prepares to view his 13th total solar eclipse, he reflects on the impact that these rare spectacles have had on his life. He expresses gratitude for being able to witness such extraordinary natural phenomena and acknowledges the fleeting nature of these events. Despite his age, Biser remains hopeful for clear weather to allow him to experience this eclipse and add another photograph to his collection of past eclipses.
For Biser, the darkened sky in the middle of the day during a total solar eclipse is a reminder of the vastness of the universe and the interconnectedness of all beings. He views each eclipse as a unique and awe-inspiring experience that evokes a sense of wonder and appreciation for the natural world. As he embarks on his 13th total solar eclipse, Biser remains humble and grateful for the opportunity to witness this rare event, knowing that it may be his last.
Throughout his lifetime of chasing eclipses, Biser has remained dedicated to his passion for astronomy and the beauty of the cosmos. His commitment to traveling the world in search of the best viewpoints for solar eclipses has not wavered, even as he approaches his 106th birthday. Biser’s story serves as a testament to the enduring power of curiosity, wonder, and appreciation for the natural world, inspiring others to embrace the mysteries of the universe and view each moment as an opportunity for discovery and connection.
