positron array - 1999

data collected during a total eclipse of the sun remixed using local atmospheric conditions

Positron Array was a two part project centred around the total eclipse of the sun in August 1999. During the eclipse a small lab was set up in Newlyn Cornwall with video cameras, a VLF radio receiver and a custom built 'probe' consisting of heat, light and emf sensors. This equipment was used to gather data and audio from the environmental phenomena during the eclipse and formed the basis of a live webcast. Part of the streamed data was real time MIDI generated by the sensors on the probe and was remixed live by electronic musicians around the globe.

The MIDI files and VLF recordings were then transplanted into an installation in Upper Campfield Market in Manchester as part of Digital Summer 99. A second probe device was sited high in the roof beams of the space and monitored atmospheric conditions around the building, using the data gathered to remix the datablocks and their associated audio files from the eclipse.

A plan came about with IrisLight records to release a CD of remixes of the sounds from the installation. Fantastic tracks were made by Zoviet France, Christoph da Babalon, Kim Cascone, Janek Schaefer and others. Unfortunately the deal fell through but you can hear Janek's beautiful track, Penumbral Rover, on his album 'Pulled Under' (audiOh!12)- www.audioh.com

installation audio:
clip 1 (aiff)
clip 2 (aiff)