On April 8, 2024, ULM Atmospheric Science students embarked on a journey to witness the total solar eclipse in Cabot, Arkansas. Led by ULM Associate Professor of Atmospheric Science, Dr. Todd Murphy, the group’s primary goal was to conduct an atmospheric boundary layer experiment during the eclipse.
The original plan was to locate in northeast Texas for the experiment. However, cloud cover forecasts prompted a change of plans. Student Zach Hardcastle offered his family’s property in Cabot as an alternative site due to the more favorable cloud cover forecasts in central Arkansas. This decision proved fruitful as they were able to view the eclipse clearly and collect valuable data.
Preliminary analysis of the data collected revealed an 8-10° temperature drop during totality and a decrease in surface winds. The Doppler wind LiDAR funded by the National Science Foundation showed a sudden collapse of boundary layer circulations. The ULM students launched three weather balloons during the event to gather additional information.
Dr. Murphy described witnessing totality as a once-in-a-lifetime experience that left him with a surreal feeling of the surroundings losing color saturation and rapid air cooling with diminishing sunlight. The group is eager to delve deeper into the data they collected and analyze its implications on atmospheric science research.
Student Alec Soileau expressed his awe at the eclipse, calling it one of the best events of his life.
In summary, ULM Atmospheric Science students traveled to Cabot, Arkansas to conduct an atmospheric boundary layer experiment during the total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024. Their decision to change their original plan due to cloud cover forecasts proved fruitful as they were able to view the eclipse clearly and collect valuable data. Preliminary analysis revealed an 8-10° temperature drop during totality and a decrease in surface winds, among other findings.
The group is excited about delving deeper into their data analysis and exploring its implications on atmospheric science research.
Student Soileau called it one of his best events ever!
