Help on Land
At sea, the natural horizon is used as a baseline to measure the height f the Sun or a star. On land, this true horizon is not visible, therfore AstroMedia has created a clever substitute: The Artificial Horizon allows comparatively accurate measurements of a point above the true horizon even when it is not visible. With the help of a third mirror, a spirit level and the pre-cut cardboard components, the height can be measured independently of the natural horizon.
How it works
To determine the height of a point (celestial body, mountain peak) above the true horizon, you have to control the horizontal position of the sextant throughout the measurement by looking at the spirit level. You do not need to look at the unmirrored image. Just align the mirrored image with the marked line on the horizon mirror by swivelling the alidade. Then make sure that the sextant is horizontal and read off the result.
This kit contains
- 1 pre-cut and printed sheet of construction cardboard, DIN A5
- accessories:
1 stainless steel mirror, 48 x 18 mm
1 mini spirit level, 15 x 15 x 36 mm - detailed instructions for construction
Dimensions of the built item: approx. 6.5 x 6.2 x 2 cm
Construction time: approx. 30 minutes
Producer: AstroMedia GmbH, Im Wirrigen 30, 45731 Waltrop, Germany, astromedia.de
Below you can download the instructions for this kit
Things you’ll need for assembly, or which might be useful:
- a firm, level working surface
- a sharp knife, e.g. our craft knife
- some fine sandpaper or our sand sheet craft file
- a pencil
- a black marker
- a good universal glue
- possibly some alcohol to clean the mirror
Supervision by adults:
Children under the age of 14 should only use the kit under adult supervision to avoid risks due to improper handling.
Take care with small parts:
Choking hazard! Keep small parts out of the reach of small children.
Risk of injury:
Take particular care when handling pointed and sharp parts! Use sharp tools with care and take suitable safety measures to avoid injury if necessary.
Fire hazard:
Keep away from open sources of fire and heat. Product contains highly flammable materials.
Use of adhesives:
When using adhesive, follow the manufacturer's safety instructions. Work in well-ventilated areas and avoid contact with skin or eyes.
Intended use:
The kit should be used in accordance with the enclosed instructions. Independent modifications may impair the functionality and safety of the model built.
