The Pendulum Quadrant - AstroMedia
Cardboard kit for a pendulum or plumb quadrant, which measures the elevation angles of celestial bodies, terrain points, buildings, etc., even the height of the sun.
An astronomical instrument with history
The quadrant is an astronomical instrument known since Babylonian antiquity. With the help of a plumb bob, it shows the angle between the rays of sight to a targeted point, e.g. a star, and the horizon point directly below it. One then speaks of the (angular) altitude or the elevation angle of this point or star. Thanks to a transversal division of the scale, the measurement succeeds to an accuracy of about 10 arc minutes. It is equipped with a sounding pipe and handle. This simple device is the historical predecessor of Jacob's staff and sextant.
How to measure
Determine any point in the sky (except the sun!) or in the landscape by taking a bearing through the tube. Hold the plumb line on the quadrant. You can read off the angle where the thread runs over the degree scale.Very important: Never take a direct bearing on the sun! This can cause irreparable damage to your eyes!
If you still want to determine the altitude of the sun, this can be done as follows: Point the right end of the dipstick at the sun and hold the other end close over an inclined surface that catches the shadow of the quadrant, e.g. the palm of your hand. Then rotate the quadrant until its shadow has become a line and the sun can shine through the dipstick unhindered. Now the plumb line shows the angular height of the sun on the degree scale.
For teachers and pupils
The pendulum quadrant is easy to build and is an excellent teaching aid for secondary schools. Like all other astro materials, it can also be used for other group and project work on astronomy and physics.
| Aspiration scale: | Easy |
|---|---|
| Time Line: | 30 Min |
- 1 printed sheet for cutting out of construction cardboard, DIN A4
- Detailed assembly instructions on the sheet
Not included: Thread, weight (plumb bob)
Dimensions of the assembled item: approx. 20 x 20 x 2 cm
Construction time: approx. 30 minutes
Distributor:
PGI-Skarabäus, Im Kränzliacker 9, 79576 Weil am Rhein, Germany, www.pgi-shop.de
PGI-Skarabäus, Lerchenstrasse 38, 4147 Aesch, Switzerland, www.pgi-shop.ch
Manufacturer: AstroMedia GmbH, Im Wirrigen 30, 45731 Waltrop, Germany, astromedia.de
Adult supervision:
Children under 14 years of age should only use the kit under adult supervision to avoid risks from improper handling.
Risk of injury:
Be particularly careful when handling pointed and sharp parts! Use sharp tools carefully, if necessary take appropriate safety measures to avoid injuries.
Fire hazard:
Keep away from open fire and heat sources. Product contains highly flammable materials.
Danger from sunlight:
Never look directly at the sun without using a suitable sun filter, as this can cause serious eye damage.
Use of adhesive:
When using adhesive, follow the manufacturer's safety instructions. Work in well-ventilated rooms and avoid skin or eye contact.
Intended use:
The kit may only be used in accordance with the enclosed instructions. Independent modifications can affect the functionality and safety of the built model.
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