3-1
Sunspotter
The sunspotter allows you to make visual observations of the sun safely. Light from the
sun is reflected off of a mirror and an image of the sun is projected onto the bottom
surface (see picture below). Caution: all of the light, including the dangerous UV, is
focused at this point. Sunburns and other radiation damage can occur!
Data collection techniques
To collect data, point the sunspotter at the sun such that the image is centered on the
bottom of the sunspotter. Put a piece of paper directly on the image and trace the image
onto the paper. Sunspots—darker, cooler areas on the surface of the sun—should be
visible. Be sure to sketch the approximate size, shape, and location of sunspots.
Here’s an example of what the data might look like:
Date: July 14th, 2002
Number of sunspots: 6
Comments: the sunspot on the left is new today; the
largest sunspot appears to be growing
in size compared to yesterday