How to Build a Sundial

By eHow Home & Garden Editor

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For centuries, man has used the sun to help him determine the passage of time. Sundials are the most ancient form of time telling devices in the world. You can build a sundial at home and participate in this timeless experience of harnessing nature's clock.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

  • Card stock
  • Compass
  • Magnetic compass
  • Board or other flat surface
  • Balsa wood
  • Level
  • Scissors
  • Straight edge
  • Map
  • Paper
  • Protractor

Build a Sundial

Step1
Determine what the latitude is for the place where you live. You can do this by locating your town on a map which features latitude and longitude.
Step2
Use the Sundial Hour Line Calculator to calculate the placement of hours for your latitude (see Resources below).
Step3
Draw the hour lines onto a rectangular piece of card stock for the angles determined by the calculator using a compass and straight edge. The hours of 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. act as your baseline, with each proceeding hour line draw along the correct angle.
Step4
Mark each hour line with the time it reflects. For example, for the line indicating 6 a.m., write "Six a.m." or "6:00 a.m."
Step5
Build a gnomon, the piece of the sundial which casts a shadow to indicate time, in the shape of an equilateral triangle out of balsa wood. You will need to use the same degree of latitude as your current location for the degree of the angles in the gnomon.
Step6
Attach the gnomon to the sundial along the line for 12:00 using tape or glue.
Step7
Take your sundial outside and place it on a flat surface in an open area, away from trees or other things that might interfere with the sun's rays. You may wish to use a level to ensure that the sundial is on a flat, level surface.
Step8
Use a magnetic compass to find the perfect placement for your new sundial. You will need to situate your sundial so that back side of the gnomon is facing due north.

Tell Time With a Sundial

Step1
Check the placement of your sundial by comparing the time shown with your watch. Sundials work best when they are set to standard time (not daylight savings time).
Step2
Look for the bottom edge of the shadow cast by the gnomon--it should align with the hour line closest to your local time.

Tips & Warnings

  • The success of your sundial requires great attention to detail and precision. Use a compass and protractor to draw hour lines at the correct angle for your latitude.

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eHow Article:  How to Build a Sundial

eHow Home & Garden Editor

eHow Home & Garden Editor

Category: Home & Garden

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