Sundials, or “shadow clocks,” have been used by people for at least 3500 years. We have records of the ancient Chinese, Babylonians, and Egyptians using various kind of shadow devices for telling time.
For this project, create your own horizontal sundial. You can make it out of any kind of material you wish, such as paper and styrofoam, or a more permanent one made from wood.
Step #1: Find Your Latitude
Go to Google Maps and type in your home address. Right-click (or double-tap) on the location icon and two numbers will appear, separated by a comma. The first number listed is the latitude line of your home.
Step #2: Get Your Horizontal Sundial Angle Measurements
Using this latitude number, go to AnyCalculator.com, enter the latitude number, and press “Calculate.” The degree measurements shown are measured from either side of the gnomon.
Step #3: Watch the Video Below
The following video from Hack a Week describes go to build a horizontal sundial using these angle measurements.
Check out sundials made by Experience Astronomy alumni!
