Night time Sky Observation:
Polaris and the Big Dipper

Purpose:
To observe the positions of Polaris (the North Star) and the Big Dipper over several hours at night.

Making and using the tools:

Quadrant:

1. Glue the quadrant scale to stiff paper like oak tag or a manila folder and cut it out.

2. Put a small hole in the middle of the circle where the “fold” and “front” lines cross. Put a string about 8 inches long through the hole and secure it. Tie a weight such as a washer on the other end of the string.

3. Fold the quadrant scale along the “fold” line at a right angle and tape a straw to be used to sight through along the shelf made by this fold.

Construct the pinhole protractor as described in the directions here.