Science and art
Solar eclipse: Help two UT students film the Black Sun in Tokyo
On May 20th, citizens of Tokyo, Japan will have the opportunity to observe an annular eclipse — meaning the sun will only be visible as a ring around the moon — which is unfair to the rest of the world, because we all like eclipses too.
For those unable to make the trip to Tokyo, upcoming film project Black Sun will be one to keep in mind. The movie centers around Dr. Alphonse Sterling and Dr. Hakeem Oluseyi, two astrophysicists who study the solar atmosphere during eclipses to learn more about solar flares and “seismic solar disturbances.” If you think that research is unimportant, keep in mind the satellites that power our smartphone obsession are vulnerable to solar activity.
“I believe that through the interaction with other filmmakers, scientists, and people from a culture different than mine, this project will teach me invaluable skills, both as a filmmaker and as a citizen of the world."
In addition to the two astrophysicists, three of the film's production team will participate in the filming: Dr. Jarita C. Holbrook, Kelvin Z. Phillips and Carla L. Jackson. With credentials ranging from Cal Tech to NYU to Yale, the team provides a mix of all aspects of film technique in addition to a love of science.
More relevant to Austin are the two UT Film students, Jacqueline Kuenstler and Andrea Macias-Jimenez, who are raising cash to fund their trip to Tokyo, where they will gain invaluable experience in both film technique and the importance of astrophysics.
Best of all, anyone can help them get there. The production team has started a Kickstarter campaign for the two students, hoping to raise $10,000 by May 18th, which would be enough to fund the first portion of the film (a second, total eclipse occurs later in the year in Australia). This gives each of us an opportunity to directly impact the lives of two fellow Austinites, and help provide a truly life changing experience.
Both girls have spoken with wide eyed excitement of the project, each expressing gratitude at even having the opportunity to work with such talent. “I believe,” Andrea began, “that through the interaction with other filmmakers, scientists, and people from a culture different than mine, this project will teach me invaluable skills, both as a filmmaker and as a citizen of the world.”
Jacqueline had just as much passion to share, “I started learning more about the STEM goals (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) of the project, the stories behind the scientists, and I really understood how important it is that we make this film.”
Black Sun's Kickstarter campaign ends May 18th, and as of this writing, the team has raised just over half of their goal. Your donation will not only help advance the science of solar disturbances, but will help two local students on their path to success. And even if you don't use a smartphone, that's something to care about.