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No eclipse glasses? Here's how to make a simple eclipse pinhole projector

If you tried to go out and buy the special eclipse glasses at the last minute, you probably found them sold out. 

Here's how you can see the eclipse by making your own pinhole projector: 

Step 1

Start with a cereal box, white computer paper, aluminum foil, tape and something pointy like a pen or pencil. 

Step 2

Trace the bottom of the box on the white piece of paper. 

Step 3

Cut out what you traced and tape or glue the white piece of paper on the inside bottom of the cereal box. 

Step 4

Cut off the side tabs and an inch off each end of the sides of the cereal box lid cover. 

Step 5

Cover one hole with aluminum foil and tape it down. With your pointy object poke a hole in the middle of the tin foil. 

Step 6

When viewing the eclipse you will turn your back to the sun and look through the large hole on the top of the box while allowing sunlight to enter the aluminum foil hole. You will be able to see the eclipse happening on the bottom inside the cereal box. 

Enjoy!

Same method with cardboard pieces

Meteorologist Paul Gross demonstrates another pinhole projection method with two pieces of cardboard: 

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Paul is standing with his back to the sun in anticipation of the moon's shadow blocking the punched-out hole in the cardboard. This technique is actually a lot cooler than it looks. You should be able to see the outline of the moon as it passes by the sun. It's better than nothing. 

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About the Authors
Kim DeGiulio headshot

You can watch Kim on the morning newscast weekdays from 4:30 to 7 a.m., and frequently doing reports on the 5 and 6 p.m. newscasts.

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