Waveform: The MKBHD Podcast Waveform: The MKBHD Podcast

Total Solar Eclipse Explained: Live!

Aug 18, 2026 · 48m

Summary

Hosted live from Zaragoza, Spain, the MKBHD team records a special Waveform episode during a total solar eclipse. They discuss the science behind the event, including the Purkinje effect and helium’s discovery, while sharing trivia and photography tips. The hosts also reflect on their travel logistics and previous eclipse experiences as they await totality.

Topics discussed

Introduction and the $100 fact challenge Arriving in Zaragoza for the eclipse Explaining how total solar eclipses work Recalling the 2024 Ohio eclipse experience Current obscuration levels and location scouting Choosing Spain over Iceland and finding the spot Scenery appreciation and preparation for filming Safety tips: Solar filters and camera settings Filming techniques and exposure locking Predictability and the approaching darkness The coincidence of the Moon and Sun sizes Sponsor segment: Airbnb and travel culture Fun fact: Discovery of Helium on the Sun Fun fact: Spain's solar grid impact Future eclipses and travel logistics Road trip stories and working in the heat Defining an 'umbrophile' and observing the sun Pinhole cameras and shadow bands Temperature drops and Easter date trivia Lighting measurements and ambient light shifts Human eye sensitivity to color and brightness Annular eclipses and the last total eclipse Calculating the timeline for the last eclipse Final countdown and shadow bands acceleration Totality: Bailey's beads and the corona Post-totality: The sun returns and drone footage Reflections on the experience and goodbye
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