Skydivers Prepare for a Spectacular View of the April 8 Solar Eclipse
A group of 30 skydivers are coming together to get the best possible view of the solar eclipse on April 8, 2024 — literally in the sky.
The Perfect Timing for an Unforgettable Experience
Skydivers are preparing for a unique occasion, as the upcoming eclipse will cast a mesmerizing shadow across the sky, directly above their skydiving center. When Berger recognized that this event was a rare opportunity, he immediately began brainstorming how to turn this celestial event into something extraordinary.
About nine months ago, Berger and his dedicated team set out to create an unforgettable solar eclipse experience that would literally elevate skydiving to new heights. “Nature’s giving us the special event, which is the eclipse… How do we go ahead and make it extreme and make it even better than the rest?” he shared during an interview with Fox Television.
(Skydive the Falls)
Skydiving Enthusiasts Unite for a Celestial Jump
Three airplanes will carry a select group of enthusiastic skydivers, who are making their way from various locations across the United States, including Texas and California. This monumental leap into the sky is set to unfold on April 8. Timing is critical for these jumpers, as they must synchronize their descent with the celestial dance of the sun and moon.
“We’re going to jump one minute prior to totality, so we can enjoy the full experience under our parachutes,” Berger explained, emphasizing the importance of precision in their plan.
To avoid a chaotic sky, the planes will be strategically organized, ensuring they don’t overlap in the skyspace. Each skydiver will freefall while equipped with protective eclipse glasses. “We also have different sized parachutes opening at varying altitudes to maintain safety and separation,” he said.
As they freefall, the skydivers will don their eclipse glasses. Once they deploy their parachutes, they’ll glide serenely, reflecting on the remarkable spectacle unfolding above. “We will have our glasses on us, so when the parachute opens, it’s much quieter and safer,” he noted.
Tickets for this exceptional experience went on sale in January and, astonishingly, sold out in just seven minutes. This reflects the high enthusiasm among skydiving aficionados eager for a once-in-a-lifetime moment.
(Skydive the Falls)
Experienced and New Skydivers Share in the Adventure
The majority of ticket recipients are licensed skydivers, many of whom have completed thousands of jumps. Yet, Berger also sees the value in inclusivity. “We did open up a few select first-timer slots, and those novices will tandem jump with experienced instructors — including myself,” he mentioned. This blend of expertise offers reassurance and excitement for those about to take their inaugural jump.
Participating in a solar eclipse viewing party at such heights creates an experience that is bound to remain in the memory forever. As they glide through the skies, the skydivers can collectively revel in the celestial wonder of the eclipse.
(Skydive the Falls; ROB KERR/AFP via Getty Images)
Reflections from a Seasoned Skydiver
With countless skydiving stories under his belt, Berger acknowledges that this upcoming event will be unlike any other. “There’s not much left in the skydiving world that I have not done, and this is one of them,” he expressed, illustrating his eagerness for this event. “For me, it keeps everything exciting and alive… It’s just another check-off of the logbook.”
This vision comes together not just as an event, but as a reminder of the extraordinary experiences life can offer, inviting those who dare to look up and embrace the beauty unfolding above.
