How to Make a Pocket Sundial
Creating a pocket sundial is a delightful way to explore the wonders of astronomy and the beauty of timekeeping. A pocket sundial is a portable timepiece that uses the sun’s position to indicate the time. It’s a simple yet fascinating project that can be completed with minimal materials and basic tools. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making your own pocket sundial.
Materials Needed
Before you begin, gather the following materials:
1. A piece of thin, flat wood or plastic (approximately 8 inches by 4 inches)
2. A sharp pencil
3. A compass
4. A ruler
5. A small, flat object (like a coin or a button) for marking the center
6. A permanent marker
7. A small, lightweight string or thread
8. A small, flat stone or metal plate for the base
Step 1: Mark the Center
Begin by placing your small, flat object on the wood or plastic surface. Use the compass to draw a small circle around the object, marking the center of the sundial.
Step 2: Draw the Hour Lines
Using the ruler, draw a horizontal line across the center of the sundial. This will serve as the base for your hour lines. Next, use the compass to draw a series of circles around the center, spacing them evenly apart. These circles will represent the hour lines.
Step 3: Mark the Hour Marks
With the pencil, mark the hour marks on the hour lines. To do this, place the compass on the center of the sundial and align the pencil with the hour lines. Draw a small mark at the intersection of the pencil and the hour line. Repeat this process for each hour line.
Step 4: Measure the Hour Angle
To determine the hour angle, measure the angle between the hour line and the line connecting the center of the sundial to the north. This can be done using a protractor or by using the sun’s position at noon as a reference.
Step 5: Mark the Noon Line
Draw a line from the center of the sundial to the point where the noon line intersects the hour line. This line represents the noon position.
Step 6: Attach the String
Thread the string or thread through a small hole in the wood or plastic, creating a loop. Attach the loop to the center of the sundial.
Step 7: Use Your Pocket Sundial
To use your pocket sundial, place it in a sunny location. Hold the sundial so that the string is vertical and the base is flat. The shadow cast by the string will indicate the time. The length of the shadow will change throughout the day, allowing you to determine the time at any given moment.
Conclusion
Making a pocket sundial is a rewarding project that combines creativity and practicality. By following these simple steps, you can create your own portable timekeeping device that showcases the marvels of the sun and the art of astronomy. Enjoy the process and the beauty of time as you explore the world of pocket sundials.
