This is the unique story of observing a total solar eclipse for no less than 74 consecutive
minutes. On the summer morning of June 30 1973 the Sun rises on the Canary Islands. But it is
strangely indented by the Moon. The eclipse of the century has just begun. From the west the
lunar shadow rushes to the African coast at a velocity of over 2000 kilometers per hour.
Astronomers on the ground will enjoy seven short minutes of total eclipse to study the solar
corona - too short for Pierre Lena and seven scientists who board the Concorde 001 prototype
an extraordinary plane to become the first commercial supersonic aircraft. With André Turcat as
chief pilot and a crew of five at 17000 m altitude the aircraft remains in the lunar shadow
for 74 minutes a record time of scientific observations not yet beaten and allowing for
exceptional measurements. Science technology aviation and history combine in the story of a
unique human adventure aboard a legendary aircraft illustrated with a rich and original
iconography. It reflects the wonderful domains that science and technology can open and the
passion in the professions they offer. A must read for every eclipse chaser and fan of true
scientific adventures.On the summer morning of June 30 1973 the Sun rises on the Canary
Islands. But it is strangely indented by the Moon. The eclipse of the century has just begun.
From the west the lunar shadow rushes to the African coast at a velocity of over 2000
kilometers per hour. Astronomers on the ground will enjoy seven short minutes of total eclipse
to study the solar corona - too short for Pierre Lena and seven scientists who board the
Concorde 001 prototype an extraordinary plane to become the first commercial supersonic
aircraft. With André Turcat as chief pilot and a crew of five at 17000 m altitude the
aircraft remains in the lunar shadow for 74 minutes a record time of scientific observations
not yet beaten and allowing for exceptional measurements. Science technology aviation and
history combine in the story of a unique human adventure aboard a legendary aircraft
illustrated with a rich and original iconography. It reflects the wonderful domains that
science and technology can open and the passion in the professions they offer. A must read for
every eclipse chaser and fan of true scientific adventures.
