Since a celestial event like this hasnt happened since 1979, this Monday will be your first opportunity in a while to view a total solar eclipse. Millions of people in North America will be able to witness the big event from a 70-mile path from coast to coast.
And, like most things in todays world, technology is here to make the most of Solar Eclipse 2017. These apps are actually really useful and can ensure you dont miss the eclipse, that youre in the best spot for viewing, and that you stay safe while doing it.
All of these apps will use your phones GPS and give you information based on your location, or any other you choose. Each also has an interactive eclipse map for users to play around with and get all kinds of fascinating details.
Smithsonian Eclipse 2017 (free iOS and Android) has a virtual eclipse simulator and an eclipse countdown so you wont miss anything. And if by some chance you get stuck in a meeting, or clouds decide to cover your view, this app has access to the NASA live stream. So, even if something goes wrong and you cant get outside to view the eclipse, you can still watch it on your device.
Eclipse Safari (free iOS and Android) also has the eclipse simulator and countdown timer, but also throws in a shadow tracker and live eclipse updates.
Totality by Big Kid Science (free iOS and Android) could be a great option for parents and teachers because it incorporates activities for families and schools to do that relate to the big event. This app also allows users to view eclipses all over the world. It also has a cool navigational feature to help you find the best route to get to the path of totality (where the moon will eclipse the sun 100 percent).
Black Sun ($0.99 iOS) is the only app Im featuring that isnt free, but its worth the 99 pennies. Black Sun takes the eclipse simulator to another level well, actually, another dimension. Instead of the 2D simulations on the other apps, this one throws in 3D and outer space viewing locations. So users are able to see what the eclipse would look like if you were standing on the sun, or looking down on the North Pole. This app will also give you a countdown timer, and an interactive eclipse map that lets you drop a pin at a desired location to get directions. Black Sun will show you simulations based on NASA data for the next three solar eclipses, and its all hosted right on your phone, so it wont matter if you lose cell service.
Use these apps to enhance your eclipse event on Monday, and, of course, make sure you take the proper safety measures for your eyes. Ive seen posts all over Facebook from people (who didnt order online in time) trying to find glasses to buy. Remember, you can always make a box pinhole projector. Thats what we did in elementary school for the eclipse in the 70s. Time and Date has a great tutorial.
And, like most things in todays world, technology is here to make the most of Solar Eclipse 2017. These apps are actually really useful and can ensure you dont miss the eclipse, that youre in the best spot for viewing, and that you stay safe while doing it.
All of these apps will use your phones GPS and give you information based on your location, or any other you choose. Each also has an interactive eclipse map for users to play around with and get all kinds of fascinating details.
Smithsonian Eclipse 2017 (free iOS and Android) has a virtual eclipse simulator and an eclipse countdown so you wont miss anything. And if by some chance you get stuck in a meeting, or clouds decide to cover your view, this app has access to the NASA live stream. So, even if something goes wrong and you cant get outside to view the eclipse, you can still watch it on your device.
Eclipse Safari (free iOS and Android) also has the eclipse simulator and countdown timer, but also throws in a shadow tracker and live eclipse updates.
Totality by Big Kid Science (free iOS and Android) could be a great option for parents and teachers because it incorporates activities for families and schools to do that relate to the big event. This app also allows users to view eclipses all over the world. It also has a cool navigational feature to help you find the best route to get to the path of totality (where the moon will eclipse the sun 100 percent).
Black Sun ($0.99 iOS) is the only app Im featuring that isnt free, but its worth the 99 pennies. Black Sun takes the eclipse simulator to another level well, actually, another dimension. Instead of the 2D simulations on the other apps, this one throws in 3D and outer space viewing locations. So users are able to see what the eclipse would look like if you were standing on the sun, or looking down on the North Pole. This app will also give you a countdown timer, and an interactive eclipse map that lets you drop a pin at a desired location to get directions. Black Sun will show you simulations based on NASA data for the next three solar eclipses, and its all hosted right on your phone, so it wont matter if you lose cell service.
Use these apps to enhance your eclipse event on Monday, and, of course, make sure you take the proper safety measures for your eyes. Ive seen posts all over Facebook from people (who didnt order online in time) trying to find glasses to buy. Remember, you can always make a box pinhole projector. Thats what we did in elementary school for the eclipse in the 70s. Time and Date has a great tutorial.
