How to Make an Eclipse Viewer from a Box
An eclipse is a fascinating celestial event that occurs when the moon passes between the Earth and the sun, casting a shadow on our planet. While witnessing an eclipse is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, it’s essential to do so safely to avoid damaging your eyes. One creative way to observe an eclipse is by constructing a simple eclipse viewer using a cardboard box. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making an eclipse viewer from a box, ensuring a safe and enjoyable viewing experience.
Materials Needed:
Before you begin, gather the following materials:
1. A cardboard box (preferably a shoebox or a cereal box)
2. Scissors or a box cutter
3. A ruler
4. A piece of aluminum foil
5. A small piece of black construction paper
6. A permanent marker
Step 1: Prepare the Box
Start by cutting a small hole in the top of the cardboard box. This hole should be large enough to fit your hand through but small enough to prevent sunlight from directly entering the box. Use the ruler to measure and mark the location for the hole, then cut it out with scissors or a box cutter.
Step 2: Create the Filter
To protect your eyes from harmful solar radiation, you need to create a filter for the eclipse viewer. Take the aluminum foil and fold it in half, then fold it again to create a crease down the center. This crease will act as a guide for cutting the foil. Using the scissors, cut a strip of foil along the crease, ensuring it’s long enough to cover the hole in the box.
Step 3: Attach the Filter
Place the aluminum foil strip over the hole in the box. Use the permanent marker to draw a small circle in the center of the foil strip. This circle will serve as a guide for aligning the filter with the sun during the eclipse. Make sure the foil strip is taut and securely attached to the box.
Step 4: Add the Black Construction Paper
To further protect your eyes, place a small piece of black construction paper behind the aluminum foil strip. This will absorb any excess light and prevent glare. You can also cut a small hole in the black construction paper to align with the circle you drew on the foil.
Step 5: Enjoy the Eclipse
Now that your eclipse viewer is complete, you can safely observe the eclipse. Hold the box up to the sun and use the hole in the box to project an image of the sun onto a flat surface. As the moon moves between the Earth and the sun, you will witness the partial or total eclipse depending on the type of eclipse occurring.
By following these simple steps, you can create a homemade eclipse viewer from a box and enjoy this awe-inspiring celestial event without the risk of eye damage. Happy viewing!
