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How to Plot the Sun's Path

Over the course of a year, you can plot the Sun's path across the sky to trace an analemma, the figure-eight shape that's created thanks to the tilt of the Earth's axis and its elliptical orbit around the Sun. Whether you are an astronomy enthusiast, an educator or just a curious mind, following a few simple steps can allow you to plot the Sun's path.

Things You'll Need

Weather-resistant pole
Plastic tent pegs
Bubble level
Yarn

Instructions

- 1
  Find an open, clear outdoor area that is free of shadows. The ground will need to be soft enough for you to insert a pole into it. A sunny, grassy yard is the best place to mark the Sun's path.
- 2
  Insert the weather-resistant pole into the ground, leaving 20 inches exposed. Use the bubble level to check that the pole is not leaning to either side.
- 3
  Use a plastic tent peg to mark where the tip of the shadow cast by the pole. Do this every three to five days around the same time of day, preferably midday. Be sure the pegs are inserted deep enough into the ground that they aren't accidentally uprooted. Be sure the Sun is not obstructed by cloud cover on days when you mark its path.
- 4
  Connect the tent pegs in order using the yarn to trace the analemma.

Astronomy