What an eclipse sounds like — and why it matters

An eclipse, in itself, does not produce any sound because it is a visual event that occurs in space, where sound waves can’t travel because there are no molecules to vibrate and convey the sound. However, during a solar eclipse on Earth, you might notice changes in ambient sounds. The shift from day to night can silence birds and other animals, or cause nocturnal creatures to emit sounds they typically make after dusk.

The study of these changes is significant for a branch of science known as Bioacoustics, which explores how animals use sounds to communicate, behave, and respond to environmental changes. During an eclipse, animals can become startled or confused, which can add valuable information to our understanding of their behavior and adaptability. This can help in contributing to species conservation efforts.

In terms of the broader picture, observing eclipses also matters for Astrophysicists as such events provide opportunities to gather data about celestial bodies’ movements and properties, contributing to our overall comprehension of the universe.