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Radio
07-15-2017, 05:41 PM
How to make a no-cost pinhole eclipse viewer safe for kids.

The best results are had if the "pinhole" is made from very thin, opaque material, tin foil or black construction paper, and the edges of the hole are very smooth. (This just helps the quality of the "optics") Cut a 1 inch square hole in your box and tape your pinhole material over that. An ordinary paper hole puncher will make a decent "pinhole"

The pinhole needs to be sort of "high up" to get over your head. A white piece of paper helps brighten the image. The bottom of the box doesn't really need to be enclosed. In fact if there is enough space it might be good of an adult can see in there to help "aim" the thing.

You'll swear it isn't working, but when the moon begins to obscure the sun, you'll the that white dot isn't round anymore, but has a "bite" taken out of it.

Trust me this thing will work, and is great for kids who are old enough to understand what's happening with the eclipse.

*****

Seems I recall there was an eclipse back when I was about second grade. It wasn't anywhere near totality where we were (Georgia). I remember we made several of these but for some reason never used them. Maybe it was rainy the day of the eclipse.

Radio
07-15-2017, 05:50 PM
BTW... in the interest of safety in viewing the eclipse, especially kids, feel free to repost this information where ever you think it might be of some use.

coupevillefish
07-15-2017, 10:50 PM
I remember that when I was in school in NW Washington or northern Idaho. I don't remember the year but I do remember the box. Guess I'll see a partial eclipse because I'm not headed south where the crowds will be.