Solar Tube Projector

Quick, easy, and safe build for viewing the eclipse.

Empty paper towel roll, Pencil, Pin, Sheet of paper, Tape, Utility knife

Scissors also work instead of a utility knife.

Starting 2 inches away from one end of the tube, draw a rectangle that is 2 inches long and 1 inch wide.

Cut out the rectangle. If using scissors, it maybe easier to start by punching holes into the four corners and cutting from there. That is how over 100 fourth graders did it this past Friday.

Cut the paper into four.

Use only two of the four squares and round them off.

Carefully wrap paper over the end of the tube. Try to keep the paper over the hole as flat as possible.

Tape the paper onto the roll.

Add paper and tape to both sides of the roll making sure to keep the paper as flat as possible over the holes.

Put a tiny pin hole into the center of the paper that is farthest to the rectangle opening.

Tube is finished. Decorate as desired.

Never look at the sun. This projector is for use with your back to the sun.

Looking at your shadow, aim the pin hole of the tube toward the sun. The pin hole projects the image of the sun right into the viewer. Look into the rectangular viewer hole to observe the sun and the eclipse! Remember your back is to the sun.

This is totally awesome as we can view the sun and the solar eclipse without worrying about hurting our eyes.