Solar Eclipse Citizen Science
Eclipse Soundscape Project:
The Eclipse Soundscape Project allows all community members to participate in collecting data that reflects how different species change their behaviors during an eclipse. Ontario observers are looking forward to collecting this data during the total solar eclipse on April 8th 2024, either from the path of totality or from the partial eclipse as viewed from Toronto.
Read on for a FREE EDUCATOR’S GUIDE to the eclipse and tons of great ideas for volunteer observers, plus important safety info for all!
This research is inspired by the nearly 100 year old study, led by William M. Wheeler and his team in 1935. Wheeler’s study used data collected by community members which amounted to 498 observations of wildlife behavior during the 1932 solar eclipse. At this time, it was only because of the general public’s dedication to science that Wheeler and his collaborators could inform their research to such a comprehensive and inclusive degree. Due to the success of this study, today's scientists and naturalists have been inspired to continue Wheeler’s study.
During a total solar eclipse, day becomes night very quickly so, it can be expected that regional wildlife will demonstrate a dramatic shift in behavior. Citizen scientists are looking to discover how the disruption in luminosity affects our local ecosystems. Now that we have more access to modern technology, multi-sensory observations are able to be recorded and we are excited to record wildlife behavior using soundscapes as an observational tool. If you are interested in learning more about soundscapes and how they can be a beneficial tool while researching acoustic patterns in nature, please refer to the Eclipse Soundscape website to get involved.
Volunteer opportunity:
At EcoSpark, we are encouraging members of the public to check out the Eclipse Soundscape project. Volunteers who participate with Eclipse Soundscapes can get involved in data collection by recording a local observation and unique soundscape. Community participation helps the project collect data from a variety of locations on April 8, 2024, whether experiencing partial or full eclipse. It is crucial to evaluate data from diverse locations in order to develop an inclusive and exhaustive study, which is why we need your help!
In order to preserve species, we need to understand them. If you would like to participate, learn more at Eclipse Soundscape and consider downloading the app: Eclipse Soundscape App (Apple Devices), Eclipse Soundscape App (Google Devices). EcoSpark will be deploying an audiomoth sound recorder from a Toronto location to capture sounds of nature during 99% eclipsed sunlight.
Important Information:
EcoSpark and RCIScience are hosting a Total Eclipse of the Park Viewing Party at the Old Mill Dam on Monday April 8th, 2024. (Join the waitlist!) It is important to note that Toronto will experience a partial solar eclipse therefore, it is crucial to wear protective glasses throughout the entire duration of the eclipse. Those who are registered for the event will be provided with glasses on a first come first served basis. Additional glasses may be available at your local library.
Implementing The Eclipse Soundscape Project in Your Classroom:
The eclipse soundscape project is a very accessible task that could be shared with students of all ages. Below you will find suggested material to share with your students if you are considering introducing your class to this opportunity or the idea of solar eclipses.
References:
[1] Eclipse SoundScapes. Eclipse Soundscapes Project. Eclipse Sundscapes. https://eclipsesoundscapes.org/
[2] NASA . Eclipse Soundscapes. NASA. https://science.nasa.gov/sciact-team/eclipse-soundscapes/
[3] NASA Goddard. (November 2023). Help NASA Capture the Sound of a Total Solar Eclipse. NASA. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c6wfnAxff90
Minds on: Below you will find resource you can share with your students to introduce the idea of eclipses, citizen science, soundscapes and the Eclipse Soundscape Project
English resources:
Indigenous connections: Indigenous Knowledge - Solar Eclipse 2024
Animals and eclipses: Animals & Eclipses | Les éclipses chez les animaux
Sound and eclipses: Help NASA Capture the Sounds of a Total Solar Eclipse!
Explaining the project: Eclipse Soundscapes Citizen Science Project, presented by MaryKay Severino
French resources:
Animals and eclipses Animals & Eclipses | Les éclipses chez les animaux
Eclipses effect Quels sont les impacts d'une éclipse solaire sur les animaux ?
What is a solar eclipse (grades 6-8) C'est quoi une éclipse solaire ? - 1 jour, 1 question
What is a solar eclipse (grade 9-12) Qu'est-ce qu'une éclipse solaire ?
Cross curricular connections and related activities : Below are potential activities you could include in other subject areas to create cross curricular connection (relevant for grades 6-8)
English resources:
Recreating a solar eclipse Create your own eclipse
Pinhole camera Pinhole Camera for Total Solar Eclipse
Art activity How to Create Eclipse Art
French resources:
recreating a solar eclipse Recréer une éclipse en classe – Science in School
Pinhole camera Comment fabriquer une boîte à éclipse solaire | Agence spatiale canadienne
Safety procedures: Below are safety procedures to share with your students
English resources:
Official safety page for teachers and students : eng-2024-eclipse-safety-sheet.pdf
Information to share with students How to Safely Watch a Total Solar Eclipse
Additional Information Queen's University - Safety Information (EN)
French resources:
Information to share with students Comment observer sans danger une éclipse solaire
Additional information Queen's University - Safety Information (FR)
Observation materials: Below you will find options for observation methods you can use with your students
English resources:
Copy of Eclipse Day Observation Field Notes Form
Eclipse Observation Log – Activity
French resources:
Other important teacher resources
ES Observer Role Facilitation Quick Start Guide (Handouts in Eng & Spa).pdf
2024 Eclipse Ontario Education Bundle - V1.0
Written by: Kaileigh O’Donovan
Kaileigh is currently a student at Queen’s University, in the process of obtaining her Bachelor’s of Education. She has a specific passion for environmental education and teaching French as a second language. Kaileigh is looking forward to integrating what she has learned about environmental education into her teaching practice to create a more engaging and thoughtful classroom climate.
