Buzz
A periscope enables you to observe objects or individuals from around a corner or from an elevated position. While modern submarines and advanced vehicles typically utilize sophisticated prism and lens systems, the basic mirror periscope outlined below is simple to construct at home. It offers a sufficiently clear image and was extensively employed for military purposes well into the twentieth century.
Procedure
Crafting a Cardboard Periscope
Locate two small mirrors of equal size. Any flat mirrors will suffice, regardless of whether they have a rectangular, circular, or alternative shape. The mirrors do not necessarily need to match in shape, but they must be compact enough to fit inside a milk carton.
- You might find small mirrors at a craft store, art supply shop, or online retailer.
Cut the tops off two clean milk cartons. Locate two empty milk cartons, each with a capacity of at least one quart (one liter), and wide enough to accommodate your mirrors. Remove and discard the triangular tops of both cartons, then thoroughly clean the interiors to eliminate any odors.
- A lengthy, durable cardboard tube could also serve the purpose.
- You might opt for a large, sturdy sheet of cardboard. Score it lightly with a craft knife to divide it into four sections, then fold it into a box and secure it with tape.
- You could utilize two robust paper boxes instead.
- Alternatively, layer several sheets of recycled toilet paper to create a sturdy base.
- Shipping paper is also a viable option.
Securely tape the two cartons together. Utilize packing tape or another robust adhesive to join the open ends of the cartons, creating a single elongated box. For added reinforcement, consider taping the inside of the box together on one side before taping all four outer surfaces.
- You can tape together two tubes or two homemade cardboard cartons in the same manner to create a longer periscope. However, note that the longer the periscope, the smaller the resulting image will be.
Create a hole on one side just large enough for a mirror. Position one of the mirrors on a vertical side of the milk carton, approximately 1/4 inch (6 mm) from the end. Trace the outline of the mirror with a pencil, then cut along the traced lines to form a hole.
- A craft knife may be the most suitable tool for cutting the hole, but adult supervision is advised due to its sharpness.
- If using a cardboard tube instead of a milk carton, flatten it slightly to facilitate tracing the mirror's outline.
Place a mirror facing the hole at a 45º angle. Affix the traced mirror to the inner wall of the carton, opposite the cut hole, using sticky putty or double-sided tape. Position the mirror so that its entire surface is visible when viewed through the hole, directing it downward toward the opposite end of the carton at a 45º angle.
- To verify the 45º angle, measure the distance from the nearest corner of the carton to where the lower edge of the mirror contacts the side of the carton. Then, measure the distance from the same corner to the far end of the mirror, where it touches the carton's top. If both distances are equal, the mirror is correctly angled at 45º.
- Avoid using glue at this stage, as adjustments to the mirror's position may be necessary.
Create a hole at the opposite end, facing in the opposite direction. Position the carton upright in front of you, with the initially cut hole near the top. Rotate the carton so that the hole is on the opposite side. The second hole should be located on the side facing you, directly at the bottom. Trace the outline of the second mirror and cut it out as before.
Position the second mirror facing the second hole. Similar to the first mirror, ensure this mirror is visible from the hole and directed toward the opposite end of the carton at a 45-degree angle. This positioning allows one mirror to reflect light downward through the periscope, while the second reflects it through the hole and into your eye. The reflected light forms an image of what's on the opposite end of your periscope.
Peer through one hole and make adjustments. Check if you can see a clear image when looking through one of the holes. If the image is blurry or you only see the inside of the periscope, tweak the mirror positions. Once both are angled correctly at 45 degrees, you should have a clear view through the periscope.
Secure the mirrors permanently. If putty or tape doesn't keep the mirrors steady, use glue to affix them. Once securely positioned, your periscope is ready for use, allowing you to observe people discreetly or gain a higher vantage point in a crowd.
- If excessive light enters the 'eye' end of your periscope, hindering visibility, cover the outer edges of the hole with black construction paper.
Constructing a PVC Pipe Periscope
Acquire one or two sections of PVC pipe. Aim for a piece ranging from 12' to 20' in length, understanding that longer pipes yield smaller images. Alternatively, use two sections of slightly different sizes, enabling rotation of the periscope's top during use to maintain visibility in all directions.
- You can purchase PVC pipe from hardware or home improvement stores.
Attach a small elbow joint pipe at each end. Place a curved elbow joint pipe over both ends of the pipe to form a periscope shape. Position the openings of the elbows in opposite directions if you wish to peer around corners or over obstacles.
Procure two mirrors that fit into the pipe. These mirrors should be small enough to be inserted into each end of the pipe. Consider using circular mirrors, which you can find at craft stores or online for easier fitting.
Insert a mirror into one end at a 45-degree angle. Utilize putty or strong double-sided tape to affix the mirror to the inside corner of the elbow joint. Peer through that elbow joint toward the inserted mirror and adjust its position until you can see the base of the pipe at the opposite end. Alternatively, remove the opposite elbow joint and adjust the mirror until you have a clear line of sight through the pipe.
Install the second mirror at the opposite end. Position the mirror at the same 45-degree angle so that light reflected from one mirror will travel through the pipe, strike the second mirror, and exit through the other opening.
Secure the mirrors in place once the periscope functions. Fine-tune the mirror positions until you have a clear view through the periscope. Once satisfied, firmly attach the mirrors using multiple layers of packing tape or a specialized adhesive like PVC glue or plastic epoxy.
Helpful Tips
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You can create small mirrors using an old CD, but remember to wear gloves and eye protection to avoid splinters. Work under adult supervision. Soften the CD first with a hair dryer to reduce brittleness, then gently score it multiple times with a craft knife until it takes the desired shape.
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Seal the center with masking tape.
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You can simply use a cardboard box and a couple of mirrors. The clarity of the mirrors is not critical as long as you can discern something. If the images are unclear, consider acquiring clearer mirrors.
The recommendations provided here are drawn from the experiences shared by Mytour readers like yourself. If you have a valuable tip to contribute, please share it with us using the field below.
- Consider using putty instead of tape for enhanced stability of the periscope.
Important Warnings
- Exercise caution when handling scissors or a craft knife, and seek adult supervision if necessary.
Essential Materials
- Two empty milk cartons or PVC pipe (refer to instructions for alternatives)
- Two small mirrors
- Scissors or a craft knife
- Adhesive putty or tape
- Strong tape or glue
