A recent study has determined that observing a solar eclipse goes beyond a simple astronomical event to share with friends or family. For the scientific community, this phenomenon can also be understood as a neurobiological process capable of awakening human curiosity.

Along these lines, various specialists have analyzed the brain processes associated with this type of experience. José Ángel Morales, researcher at the Department of Cell Biology and Histology at the Complutense University of Madrid, Spain, explained the neurological processes in brain circuits during solar eclipses.

"We perceive that there is something relevant we do not know, and that generates a kind of cognitive tension we want to resolve," the scientist explained regarding people's biological response, as cited by Europa Press Infosalus.

This theoretical framework —the agency adds— was originally proposed by psychologist George Loewenstein, supported by subsequent studies on the internal engine of human curiosity.

"We know enough to anticipate it, but its rarity, complexity, and spectacular nature generate uncertainty," the expert pointed out.

When the eclipse begins, the anterior cingulate cortex and the anterior insula of the brain activate to direct attention toward the unexpected object in the sky. At that moment, the brain experiences a decrease in activity in the default mode network, a process associated with self-centered thoughts.

This neurobiological variation —which occurs during moments such as the astronomical phenomenon— causes a common sensation of temporary forgetfulness of one's own identity, focusing all attention on the external environment.

As the moon covers the sun, the reward system kicks into action through the release of dopamine in the striatum and the nucleus accumbens, a small subcortical brain structure key to the motivation and pleasure circuit.

"Here something interesting happens: the brain not only responds to material rewards, but also to information," Morales stated regarding the rewarding process of resolving an unknown.

In this phase, the hippocampus, a brain region related to memory, collaborates with the dopaminergic system when curiosity levels are high. "We remember clearly where we were when we saw the eclipse; the brain marks that moment as relevant," the researcher added.

The interaction between the autonomic nervous system and the emotional plane also triggers temporary physiological responses in spectators, such as shivers and goosebumps.

Do all people react the same way?

However, the expert affirms that not all people experience this fascination with the same intensity. Studies indicate that some individuals, due to their brain organization, are less disposed to this type of experience, the media outlet adds.

At this point, Morales maintains that under certain neurological conditions such as depression or Parkinson's disease —where sensitivity to reward is typically lower— the capacity to experience interest or awe may be attenuated. This could be related to dysfunctions in reward circuits (striatum) and emotional integration (nucleus accumbens).

In fact, the researcher notes that people with a high need for cognitive closure (preference for definitive answers and aversion to ambiguity or uncertainty) experience less awe. "An eclipse, with its ephemeral and unpredictable character, could generate more discomfort than fascination in these people," he adds.