Blind People Get To Experience The Solar Eclipse With Open-Source Device
Illustration 303257331 © Tiagoz | Dreamstime.com
The celestial dance of a solar eclipse, with its cosmic choreography of the Moon obscuring the Sun, has long captivated humanity. But what about those who can’t see this awe-inspiring event? Developed at Harvard University, an ingenious device called LightSound bridges the visually-impaired and the wonders of the cosmos—it transforms the silent spectacle of a totality into a symphony of sound, inviting the blind and low-vision community to experience the otherworldly ballet alongside their sighted loved ones.
The LightSound Project emerged in 2017 as a beacon of accessibility. Driven by the collaboration between astronomer Allyson Bieryla, who translates data into auditory patterns for her research, and fellow astronomer Wanda Diaz-Merced, who is blind, LightSound was born with a mission to democratize the solar eclipse experience.
At its core, LightSound employs a technique called sonification, where it converts the gradual dimming of sunlight during an eclipse into musical tones.This handheld device utilizes a light sensor to measure the intensity of sunlight. A brighter horizon might be represented by a high-pitched flute melody, while a dimming view translates to a clarinet’s lower tones. Finally, complete darkness is signified by a low clicking sound.
This aural experience allows blind individuals to “see” with their ears and follow the eclipse’s progress in real-time.
City of Eagle Pass has received lightsound devices from the LightSound Project, so that the blind and visually impaired community can experience a Solar Eclipse through sound! We are thrilled to include sound stations at our viewing sights to create inclusive experiences for all! pic.twitter.com/Laz02JXg2y
— OfficialCityEaglePassTexas (@CityEaglePassTx) March 13, 2024
In the words of Diaz-Merced, “the sky belongs to everyone,” telling TIME that if the phenomenon is accessible to the world, it should be available to the low-sighted community, too.
The LightSound device, 3D-printed, compact and smartphone-sized, attaches to headphones or speakers. Powered by a 9V battery or rechargeable Li-ion battery, it can even connect to a laptop via USB. As daylight wanes during an eclipse, the LightSound emits a melodic shift, echoing the celestial alignment above. Data can be collected and analyzed later, enhancing the event’s educational value for the visually impaired.
LightSound has evolved since its inception seven years ago. When its prototype debuted during the 2017 North American Eclipse, devices were stationed in Wyoming and Kentucky. Fast forward to the 2019 South American Eclipse, where a redesigned LightSound reached Chile and Argentina. The project expanded, touching lives across borders and cultures.
As the 2024 total solar eclipse approaches, the LightSound Project is aiming sky-high. With workshops buzzing and over 200 new devices already donated for the upcoming annular eclipse, the goal is clear: build 750+ devices. These instruments of cosmic harmony will find their way to eclipse events, ensuring that the blind and low vision community can share in the celestial wonder.
Todo listo! cuenta regresiva para el eclipse solar, esta vez no solo lo veremos... también lo escucharemos! gracias a @astro_inclusiva por el lightsound pic.twitter.com/BiMDzrIpbU
— Alejandro Esteban (@alejaris) December 11, 2020
In the symphony of the skies, LightSound orchestrates inclusion, turning darkness into melody. As the Moon dances with the Sun, it invites everyone to listen, feel, and connect with the cosmos.
Incredibly, the LightSound Project is completely open-source, with instructions to build your own device are available in English, Spanish, and French.
