LightSound devices will be available at Maumee Bay State Park to provide an auditory experience of the solar eclipse.
TOLEDO, OH —
Millions of people will look up to the skies next week to catch a glimpse of a total solar eclipse. For those with visual impairments, there are still options for viewing the eclipse comprehensively.
light sound device, Developed in 2017, the technology converts light into audible sounds that vary depending on the intensity of the light.This device was created by astronomers Wanda Diaz Merced and Alison Vierilla. Diaz-Merced is blind.
”“This allows us to translate light intensity into audible sound,” said Tim Tegge, executive director of the Vision Center of Northwest Ohio. “If the light increases or decreases while the eclipse is occurring, the sound will change.” The sound will become deeper, and when the light increases again after the eclipse, the tone of that sound will also increase. ”
The devices will be distributed to various state parks throughout Ohio. Maumee Bay State Park has devices available.
”“It's great to have this type of community experience where the sounds are amplified in places like parks and stadiums so more people can experience what a solar eclipse sounds like,” Tege said.
An app called solar eclipse soundscape are also available. The app features a “rumble map” that emits vibrations that indicate the physical nature of the eclipse. Tege said the app's developers are partnering with the National Federation of the Blind.
There's also another way to think about viewing the eclipse for people who are blind, said Dani Moran, SITE Center's program director.
“Ask anyone you know who is visually impaired to see if they can come with you and explain it to you or go to the state park with you,” Moran said.
Tege said the eclipse is an opportunity for people to rest their eyes and focus on their other senses. What noises do the animals make? Are there any changes in temperature? What else is happening around you?
“Sometimes when you take your eyes off the mix, it becomes a little bit easier,” Tege said.
If you still need eclipse glasses, the Vision Center sells them for $5. All donations will be returned to the center to help provide items such as magnifying glasses to people in need.
The location of the center is 1002 Garden Lake Parkwee is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
