Eclipse Camera 2019, developed by Ideum with UC Berkeley's Space Sciences Laboratory, helps observers photograph and contribute scientific images during the July 2, 2019 total solar eclipse. The app automates camera timing for the transient phases of totality and provides planning tools to prepare on-site. A bilingual interface and an upload portal connect observers with research, making it useful for eclipse enthusiasts, amateur photographers, and researchers traveling to Chile or Argentina.

It converts an iPhone into an automated eclipse camera for hands-off observation

The app automates shutter and exposure specifically for eclipse phases, so users can watch totality while the device captures images. Its capture logic includes exposure bracketing tailored to solar phenomena and timed shutter triggering during the brief moments of totality. This design changes the learner task from manual camera operation to observation and analysis, letting participants focus on note-taking and field‑based learning during the event.

It supports practical preparation and site readiness before observation

The app includes a practice mode and a location-based countdown tied to the map of totality, which helps teams rehearse setup and timing prior to arrival. Orientation tools use the phone's sensors to aid aiming, and the interactive path map helps planners choose observation sites. These elements support experiential learning by converting abstract eclipse timing into rehearsable field procedures.

It fits amateur observers and classroom projects focused on a single event

The app targets eclipse chasers, amateur photographers, and citizen scientists traveling to the path of totality in Chile and Argentina, and it operates in English and Spanish. Platform availability centers on iPhone with the app also offered on Android during the 2019 event. Educators can adopt it for short-term field modules that require minimal prior astronomy training.

It links participant captures to university research and prior projects

Captured images and metadata, including precise time and GPS, upload through a citizen‑science portal to UC Berkeley's Space Sciences Laboratory, enabling classroom contributions to real research. Ideum's development carries forward experience from an earlier eclipse project, providing a clear research workflow for student data collection and post‑event analysis activities.

A focused educational tool best used for time‑bound field observation projects

The app is a practical option for educators and amateur observers who want hands-on observational learning tied to a defined astronomical event; its event-focused design makes it most suitable for single‑session field work and short-term classroom modules. For teaching use, plan roles and data handling in advance so students can collect, annotate, and analyze images as part of a structured lab assignment.