Solar Eclipse Workbench 2.0.0rc2 Released: Major Sony Improvements, Enhanced Nikon Support, and Critical Timing Fixes

The Solar Eclipse Workbench team is pleased to announce the availability of Solar Eclipse Workbench 2.0.0rc2, a major pre-release update featuring extensive improvements across the application, with a particular focus on Sony camera support and enhanced functionality for Nikon HDR and burst photography workflows.

With the total solar eclipse of August 12, 2026 now exactly one week away, this release is intended primarily for users who are experiencing camera-related issues with previous versions, especially Sony camera users, or for experienced and adventurous eclipse photographers who are willing and able to thoroughly test their setup before eclipse day.

⚠️ Important Recommendation for Eclipse Photographers

Do not update if your current setup is already working.

If you have already tested your eclipse script and camera equipment using Solar Eclipse Workbench 1.10.7, and everything operates correctly, you should continue using version 1.10.7 for the August 12 eclipse.

If you do upgrade, carefully re-read the README, especially the Sony and Nikon sections. Several camera workflows, options, and recommendations have changed since 1.10.7, and a complete simulation is strongly recommended before eclipse day.

A release candidate introduces substantial internal changes that, while extensively tested, may still contain undiscovered issues. With only one week remaining before eclipse day, stability and familiarity are often more valuable than new features.

We strongly recommend installing version 2.0.0rc2 only if:

• You are experiencing camera compatibility or reliability problems with previous releases.
• You own a Sony camera and require the significantly improved Sony support.
• You have sufficient time to perform a complete end-to-end eclipse simulation, including camera testing.
• You are comfortable using pre-release software and troubleshooting unexpected behavior.

What's New in 2.0.0rc2

Dramatically Improved Sony Camera Support

Version 2.0 represents the largest Sony-focused update in Solar Eclipse Workbench history. Major improvements include:

• Seamless Sony camera integration throughout the application.
• Full support for the take_bracket command.
• Proper support for the take_burst command.
• New --sony-cont-mode option for advanced control of continuous shooting modes.
• Correct operation of Sony PC mode with reliable image downloads.
• Removal of unnecessary delays when no lens is detected.
• Numerous Sony-specific fixes and enhancements.
• Improved Sony warning messages and documentation.

These changes make Sony cameras significantly easier and more reliable to use during eclipse automation.

Better Nikon Support

Nikon users will benefit from several important enhancements:

• HDR sequences are now supported.
• In-camera bracketing is now supported.
• Improved handling of shutter speed settings.
• More reliable operation of take_hdr and take_burst workflows.

Improved Timing Accuracy

Precise timing is critical during a total solar eclipse. Version 2.0 introduces:

• A completely new scheduler with microsecond-level precision.
• Millisecond display for reference moments.
• Correct countdown behavior in simulation mode.

Improved Reliability and Usability

Additional improvements include:

• Camera problems are now displayed directly in the GUI rather than only in log files.
• Cameras can now be disconnected and reconnected without restarting the application.
• Improved logging and diagnostics.
• Proper shutdown of all connected cameras.
• Prevention of duplicate command execution when reloading scripts.
• Better support for older Canon DIGIC III based cameras (e.g. 1000D)
• HDR improvements across supported camera brands.
• Improved macOS camera handling, eliminating the need to run Solar Eclipse Workbench with sudo.
• Exposures longer than three seconds no longer risk colliding with subsequent exposures.

Only one week to go!

Installation

Solar Eclipse Workbench 2.0.0rc2 can be installed using:

pip install --upgrade --pre solareclipseworkbench

📖 Review the README Before Eclipse Day

If you decide to upgrade to Solar Eclipse Workbench 2.0.0rc2, we strongly recommend revisiting the README and reviewing the camera-specific documentation before running your next simulation.

This release introduces significant changes to Sony support and adds new functionality for Nikon HDR and bracketing workflows. Existing scripts may continue to work unchanged, but camera behavior, recommended settings, and available options have evolved considerably since version 1.10.7.

The README can be found here.

Sony and Nikon users should pay particular attention to the updated README sections before relying on this release during the August 12 eclipse. As always, perform a complete simulation of your eclipse script after upgrading.

Final Advice Before August 12

The upcoming eclipse is a once-in-a-lifetime event for many observers. While Solar Eclipse Workbench 2.0.0rc2 delivers significant improvements, especially for Sony users, now is not the time for unnecessary changes to a setup that is already working reliably.

If version 1.10.7 has been fully tested with your camera and eclipse script, stay with it for eclipse day.

However, if you have been struggling with Sony camera support, Nikon HDR workflows, or other camera compatibility issues, Solar Eclipse Workbench 2.0.0rc2 may provide the solution you need, provided you can thoroughly test your complete setup before August 12.

Clear skies, successful rehearsals, and happy eclipse chasing! 🌞🌑