Why just watch the April 8th total solar eclipse, when you can use technology to monitor, record and analyze its progress? In this 7-part class, OFL's Digital Services & Technology Librarian will teach you how to design, build and deploy an eclipse monitoring device using the Arduino Uno single board computer. 

Working in pairs over the course of the first 5 sessions in March, you and a partner will use OFL's Arduino Uno kits to build and program a solar eclipse monitor capable of both providing a real-time display of the eclipse's progress and recording data for later analysis. Each monitor will then be deployed during the total solar eclipse on Monday, April 8, and the recorded data analyzed using Microsoft's free data analysis tool Power BI on Tuesday, April 9. 

Prior experience with Arduino, C++, or familiarity with computer programming and electronics is helpful but not required; this class is designed for beginners. All supplies, including laptops for programming the Arduino, will be provided. Participants only need to bring their curiosity and desire to learn. 

Note: This program is open to both teens AND adults. Interested adults who wish to attend on their own are encouraged to do so. Likewise, teens may participate without adult supervision. Families with teens are encourage to participate together as well. Please sign up whole family in one registration form. Families of 2-4 people will work together on one device; families with 5 or more will be divided up to work on multiple devices. Those attending on their own will be paired up with a partner up by the instructor.