Furthermore, four maps are given for the total solar eclipse so that eclipse observers can decide on their threshold for how close the eclipsed sun appears to the intervening ridge line. If you were to stand exactly at the shadow boundary on the map showing actual shadows, you would only see half of the eclipse because actual shadows are computed from the center of the sun. The three other maps show simulated shadows that effectively show the areas to avoid if you want 1, 2, or 3 degrees of clearance between the sun and the ridge line below.

No one should choose to be at the boundary of the actual shadow because you only see half the corona. Casual eclipse observers could reasonably choose to be at the boundary of the shadows marked with 1 degree of vertical clearance, but this clearance is too close for most eclipse chasers. Eclipse landscape photographers might choose a 1 degree clearance for a dramatic effect. Most eclipse chasers will choose a location with a vertical clearance of at least two or three degrees. This clearance is desirable to see and photograph extended features of the sun's corona .

I have built these maps using Esri's ArcGIS software on a detailed digital elevation model (DEM) from the Norwegian Polar Institute. The elevation data points in the DEM have a very high resolution of 5 meters, so the derived shadows are accurate and trustworthy. Local authorities and media may freely share and link to these images provided a credit (in English or translation) is given to "Map by Michael Zeiler, www.greatamericaneclipse.com, using terrain data from the Norwegian Polar Institute".

I've spent many hours developing these maps for the benefit of eclipse chasers and eclipse tour operators. These maps are offered at no cost. If you would like to show your appreciation for my effort, consider a purchase from our web store, www.greatamericaneclipse.com/store/.

These six maps below show the extent of the region around Longyearbyen which is accessible by vehicle. You can click on each map and save to your computer for printing. Each map is 28 inches high and 24 inches wide, or about 71 cm by 61 cm.