Panasonic successfully broadcasted the total solar eclipse live from Ternate, Indonesia on 9 March 2016. The four-minute long rare astronomical phenomenon was recorded using solar power generated by the Power Supply Container, a standalone photovoltaic power package solution from Panasonic.
The live broadcast began at 05:00AM (8:00PM 8 March UTC) and was made accessible via Ustream, YouTube Live and Periscope.
Maximum Eclipse – Panasonic Eclipse Live by Solar Power 2016
Panasonic Eclipse Live by Solar Power (FULL) – Recorded YouTubeLive
What makes the total solar eclipse live broadcast interesting is the use of Panasonic’s Power Supply Container, which was transported from Jakarta to Dodoku Ali or Ternate, an island in eastern Indonesia.
12 Panasonic HIT solar modules sit on top of the container, with the ability to generate about 3kW of electricity, converted from solar energy. Power is stored in 24 built-in lead-acid storage batteries.
The stored energy then supplies to a Panasonic LUMIX GH4 camera attached to a telescope. Equipment like mobile computers, production and editing suites, internet connection and more also harness the energy from the unit.
Powering education, empowering lives
The Power Supply Container was developed to support lives of people who live in areas without electricity. In Indonesia, it helps improve the educational environment by powering IT equipment like PCs, projectors as well as LED lighting and air-conditioners.
The first container was installed in July 2014 at the National Elementary School Karimunjawa 01, on a remote island of Indonesia. The second was introduced in July 2015 at another elementary school in the mountainous region of West Java Province to enhance study and water supply conditions.
Learn more about the Power Supply Container here.
