Telescope Project

Anthony had to pick an object invented before 1600 and describe it's chemical properties. Other students chose "simple" (as described by Anthony) things like bowls and arrowheads. He chose the telescope. The telescope was actually invented in 1608, but his teacher approved his project.

He made the telescope out of PVC pipe. Patrick bought the glass lenses at a local science supply shop. The larger diameter pipe didn't fit tightly enough over the smaller diameter pipe, so Anthony wedged some old surgical towels that we have around the house. He super-glued the lenses onto the pipe. The lenses didn't fit exactly, but close enough. Anthony's teacher wanted them to display their items on a stand, as if it was in a museum. Anthony used a Lego stand that used to support his Lego Death Star. What a cool project!

This is his description of the "item", as if it were in an actual museum. He has to give a speech on the different chemical properties of the materials he used and such. He says that he used to get pretty nervous for these speeches, but he's given enough of them now that he is much more comfortable. Speaking as someone who still has trouble with public speaking, I think this is an invaluable skill for him. I know I've been bragging a lot about Anthony lately, but he did such a great job with this!

Eric saw me taking a picture of the telescope, so he came in with his helicopter and he asked me to take a picture of him with the helicopter. He also described the helicopter as "belonging to the family". I'm not sure where he got that from, but it was pretty cute.

This week should be a little less hectic than last week, at least during the week. The weekend will be another story.