A total solar eclipse can be a confusingly dynamic event. First, you must get within the path of totality, which is only 115 miles wide. Secondly, you have to be somewhere with a clear sky. Thirdly, you have to remove your side eclipse glasses at just the right time to so that you can see the sun’s majestic corona.
Of course, most people don’t do any of these things, but it’s that final one that seems to spark panic among prospective eclipse chasers.
It’s simple. You remove your eclipse glasses when it gets dark. That’s it. If you’re in the path of totality it will get very dark very quickly as the moon’s shadow sweeps over you. You really can’t miss the moment. If you’re not in the path of totality it won’t get dark. So you keep using them.
However, there are now some apps for your smartphone that offer an immersive audio experience that, crucially, includes the instruction to take off your solar eclipse glasses as totality begins. As well as that, they talk you through when to look for certain phenomena, such as shadow bands (wavy lines on the ground created by Earth’s turbulent atmosphere when the sun is a tiny crescent), Baily’s beads (the last few drops of sunlight) and the diamond ring (that final bead as a jewel just as the corona appears like a halo).
Since they largely rely on audio instructions an narration, these apps best used with earphones, though instead of earbuds that block out the people around you, go for an over-the-ear model such as bone conduction earphones.
The Eclipse Company
Platforms: iOS and Android
Cost: Pro version costs extra (TBC)
The Eclipse Company’s app “Pro” version provides users with real-time weather updates, cloud forecasts for totality, a countdown timer with a vibration alert to remove solar eclipse glasses safely—a great idea—and detailed info about local eclipse events. It also alerts users when to look for eclipse phenomena to create am immersive audio experience. Its says nothing during totality.
Solar Eclipse Timer App
Platforms: iOS and Android
Cost: $1.99 per eclipse
Solar Eclipse Timer app geolocates your position, confirms you’re in (or out) of the path of totality, and talks you through the contact times. It also talks you through the eclipse phenomena. Developed by eclipse chaser and eclipse educator Gordon Telepun, author of “Eclipse Day: 2024 and More” on Apple Books, it’s the best choice for photographers (it’s even got a new “Photographer’s Mode” developed with ex-NASA eclipse calculator and photographer Fred Espenak, a.k.a. “Mr. Eclipse.”)
One Eclipse
Platforms: iOS (no Android version)
Cost: $1.99
Created by the non-profit Astronomers Without Borders and Simulation Curriculum (makers of the SkySafari planetarium app), OneEclipse supports an eclipse glasses recycling program for underserved communities worldwide. In addition to allowing you to simulate the eclipse from your location or anywhere on Earth, there’s an interactive map that includes precise eclipse event times and a dynamic Eclipse Countdown clock that includes a simple audio timer for all the different phases of the eclipse.
For the very latest on the total solar eclipse—including travel and lodging options—check my main feed for new articles each day.
Wishing you clear skies and wide eyes.
