How to read the gain curve
The curve starts at your base coordinate and samples points toward deeper totality. Early movement can produce a large gain when you begin close to a path edge. Later movement often adds fewer seconds for the same distance. That is the point of the calculator: quantify the payoff instead of assuming the centerline is always worth chasing.
What “seconds gained per 10 km” means
This efficiency metric compares eclipse-duration improvement with geometric travel distance. A high value means a small move buys a meaningful amount of totality. A low value means you may be travelling much farther for only a few extra seconds.
When moving is most worthwhile
Moving is most valuable when your starting point is near the totality edge or just outside it. Málaga is a good example because deeper-path alternatives around the Strait can add substantial totality. If you already start close to the centerline, additional travel can show clear diminishing returns.
Why this is not a road-trip calculator
The radius and route are based on great-circle geometry. Roads can be longer. Borders, ferries, terrain, parking, traffic, restricted areas and private land can make a mathematically attractive point impractical. Use the output to define a target region, then plan the actual route separately.
Duration is only one decision factor
A location with 20 extra seconds can still be a worse choice if historical sky conditions are poorer or the location leaves no room to relocate. Use the Location Comparator after the gain calculation so access, lodging, path margin and later climate data stay visible.
Good questions to test
- How much totality do I gain by leaving central Málaga?
- Is driving another 50 km beyond Gibraltar worth the extra seconds?
- If my hotel is already deep inside totality, does the centerline add enough time to matter?
- How does a 100 km radius compare with a 200 km radius?