Citizen Science Project
About
Citizen scientists are volunteers that work with scientists to help collect and analyze scientific data. The Eclipse Soundscapes: Citizen Science Project is studying how eclipses affect life on Earth. Eclipse Soundscapes citizen scientists will help collect and analyze sound data from the October 14, 2023 annular eclipse and the April 8, 2024 total solar eclipse.
The Eclipse Soundscapes: Citizen Science Project is based on a citizen science project from the 1930s! Before the 1932 eclipse, scientists put an ad in the newspaper asking people to share their observations. Over 498 people responded with visual AND animal sound observations. Almost 90 years later, a scientist at ARISA Lab read this study and had an idea. He decided that we should study the animal sound changes that happen during the 2023 eclipse and 2024 eclipse. NASA agreed! And, just like in 1932, we need help from the general public!
You as citizen scientists will learn about eclipses as Apprentices, collect sound data as Field Researchers, and analyze sound data as Data Analysts.
Be an Eclipse Soundscapes (ES) Citizen Scientist
Stay Tuned! The Eclipse Soundscapes: Citizen Science Project will soon be recruiting members of the public to fill the following roles.
Apprentice
Learn about why solar eclipses occur, the difference between annular and total solar eclipses, and the best US locations to experience the upcoming 2023 annular eclipse and 2024 total solar eclipse.
REQUIREMENTS:
- Technology: Mobile Device or computer
- To receive an Apprentice Completion Certificate
- Age: 13+ (with parent/guardian permission under 18)
Field Researcher
Collect Data using an AudioMoth Recorder along or near the 2023 annular eclipse path or the 2024 total solar eclipse path.
REQUIREMENTS:
- Eclipse Soundscapes Apprentice Certificate
- Technology/Materials: Mobile Device, Eclipse Soundscapes Citizen Scientist Kit
- Age: 13+ (with parent/guardian permission under 18)
Data Analyst
Analyze sound data in 2024 and 2025 alongside scientists using your computer or mobile device.
REQUIREMENTS:
- Eclipse Soundscapes Apprentice Certificate
- Technology: a computer or mobile device and an email address
- Age: 13+ (with parent/guardian permission under 18)
SMEs & Mentors
Lead a group of citizen scientists, or be an online or in person subject matter expert answering citizen scientist questions.
REQUIREMENTS:
- Eclipse Soundscapes SME/Mentor Training
- Age: 18+