Solar Eclipse Research 2024
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (April 8, 2024) –
When the sky darkened during the April 8, 2024, solar eclipse, cadets and citizen scientists from Civil Air Patrol’s New Mexico Wing lit up the path to discovery, marking a historic day of observation and learning.
New Mexico Wing played a key role in the observation of the solar eclipse, launching its largest single-day mission in history. This massive effort highlighted the dedication of our members and significantly contributed to scientific research, with NASA declaring the data gathered as critical for future studies spanning the next 300 to 500 years.
In New Mexico, a total of 69 CAP members participated in the mission, covering ten research sites across the state. Squadrons from Albuquerque, Los Alamos, Farmington, Edgewood, and Roswell all played a part in this historic event. Collaborating with The International School at Mesa del Sol and ACES Technical Charter School, CAP cadets worked with students to gather this invaluable data.
At The International School at Mesa del Sol, 90 students collaborated with Civil Air Patrol cadets, engaging in hands-on scientific inquiry during the solar eclipse. C/CMSgt Olivia Wriston, age 14, shared why she volunteered to come out today, “We’re able to help people for the future. It’s a great learning experience and I won’t be able to see another eclipse for another 20 years.” This partnership not only facilitated the collection of critical information but also fostered a sense of community and shared purpose.
Nationwide, a staggering 1,091 adult volunteers and 2,747 youth volunteers formed 418 solar eclipse observation teams. This mobilization represented about 20% of CAP units across the country, underscoring our organization's deep commitment to this monumental national initiative.
"Our participation in this solar eclipse mission is more than just observation; it's about inspiring young minds and developing a love for science and aviation that lasts a lifetime," expressed Col. Andrew Selph, New Mexico Wing Commander.
The mission's scope included capturing weather information and utilizing handheld radios to "Capture the Ghost," a unique radio attenuation phenomenon occurring during solar eclipses. This endeavor aimed at gathering insights could revolutionize weather forecasting models and pave the way for the development of new radio systems resistant to solar disruptions, benefiting both scientific understanding and communication technologies.
Civil Air Patrol's contribution to the solar eclipse observation underscores our role in scientific exploration and community service. As volunteers, our members exemplified their commitment to a mission with the potential to enlighten global scientific communities for centuries to come. This event highlights Civil Air Patrol's mission to serve America's communities, save lives, and shape the future through our role as the U.S. Air Force Auxiliary and our dedication to education and youth development.
Photos are available for use at: https://photos.nmcap.us/Wing-Activities/Aerospace-Education/Eclipse-2024
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Eclipse 2024 - New Mexico Wing Civil Air Patrol Photo gallery of the April 8, 2024 Solar Eclipse.
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For More Information:
Please contact the NMWG PAO Team at PA@nmwg.cap.gov if you have any photos you would like to contribute
