World’s Coolest Rain Gauge

Archimedes might yell “Eureka!” if he could see this cool precipitation-measuring device.

the story

 IF IT FLOATS YOUR BOAT

“Eureka!” cried Archimedes as he leapt from his bath and went running naked through the streets of Syracuse, Sicily. Apparently he was very excited about discovering how the whole buoyancy thing works. Sadly, the legend probably isn’t true, but his famous principle is. This copper gauge lets you see it in action every time it rains.

Archimedes’ Principle—which states that the upward buoyant force exerted on anything immersed in fluid is equal to the weight of the fluid that the object displaces—is why boats float. It’s also the reason the tube in this rain gauge rises as its base fills with water. Known as a pluviometer to science types (you know, the ones who might enjoy hearing all this Archimedes stuff when you show them your cool new gadget), it’s available in a patio-ready tabletop version or on a garden stake. Made in New Paltz, New York.

MADE FROM

copper, polycarbonate, #7 other (O) plastic

MEASUREMENTS

Stake: 24″ H
Gauge: 6″ H x 3″ diameter

CARE

Occasionally clean the tube and flute with warm, soapy water and a bottle brush. Do not use lubricants or abrasives.

NOTES

Maximum capacity of gauge is 5.5″.