Year: 2025
Type: conference-paper
Abstract: The SunSketcher project harnesses the collective power of citizen science to advance solar physics through precise measurements of solar oblateness. This initiative builds upon the success of the Eclipse Megamovie project, leveraging high-resolution lunar surface maps and modern mobile imaging technologies to enhance data accuracy during solar eclipses. By supporting both Android and iOS platforms, SunSketcher ensures broad public participation and inclusivity, enabling volunteers to capture critical observations during the April 2024 total solar eclipse. This paper outlines the technical foundation and development process of the SunSketcher application, emphasizing its integration of advanced image processing techniques, cross-platform compatibility, and collaboration with key lunar and solar datasets. We also detail the iterative development phases, including beta testing outcomes and interdisciplinary team coordination, which were instrumental in achieving feature parity and usability across mobile devices. Furthermore, we discuss the scientific implications of SunSketcher's data collection approach, which contributes to ongoing research in heliophysics and gravitational theory.
Source: ACM Southeast Conference (ACMSE)
Authors: Jeffrey Galloway, Travis Blake Peden, Starr May, Kelly Miller, Tameka Ferguson, Tabitha Cline, Shikha Sawant, Andrea Florence, Kelcee Gabbard, Janessa Unseld, Hugh Hudson, Gordon Emslie, Greg Arbuckle, Leah Spalding, Mark Simpson
Institution: Western Kentucky University
Language: English
Subfield: Astronomy and Astrophysics
Field: Physics and Astronomy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: bronze
Award: G8104139569
OpenAlex ID: W4410192401