{"id":53410,"date":"2025-09-29T23:59:14","date_gmt":"2025-09-29T14:59:14","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/phys-edu.net\/wp\/?p=53410"},"modified":"2025-09-29T04:59:41","modified_gmt":"2025-09-28T19:59:41","slug":"spin-an-acorn-control-a-satellite-the-amazing-physics-of-the-diy-gyroscope","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/phys-edu.net\/wp\/?p=53410&lang=en","title":{"rendered":"Spin an Acorn, Control a Satellite: The Amazing Physics of the DIY Gyroscope"},"content":{"rendered":"

I’m Ken Kuwako, Science Trainer. Every day is an experiment.<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

The little treasure of autumn rolling in the park… an acorn. Doesn’t finding one just make you happy? But did you know that this acorn holds the key to unlocking scientific wonders, and is even connected to space technology?<\/p>\n

This time, let’s dive into the magnificent world of physics\u2014a world that even relates to the Earth’s rotation\u2014starting with a simple craft you can enjoy with your children.<\/p>\n

Play with Science, Using an Autumn Treasure! How to Make a Simple Acorn Top
\nWhat we’ve made is a one-of-a-kind original “Acorn Top.” Everything you need can be found right at home or in nature.<\/p>\n

[Materials and Tools]<\/p>\n

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Your favorite acorn (the rounder and more uniform in shape, the better!)<\/p>\n

Toothpick<\/p>\n

A power drill about 2mm in diameter (an awl is fine too, but make sure to use it with an adult)<\/p>\n

Nippers or Pliers<\/p>\n

(If needed) Wood glue<\/p>\n

The instructions are incredibly simple. First, drill a straight hole through the center of the acorn. Insert the toothpick into the hole and cut it to a length that’s easy to spin using the nippers. If the axis is wobbly, you can stabilize it by applying a small dab of wood glue to the tip of the toothpick before inserting it.<\/p>\n

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Painting them is fun too!<\/p>\n

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That’s all there is to it! It\u2019s simple, but watching the top they made themselves spin brings kids so much joy. The play quickly expanded, with them spinning it over and over, and even pitting their homemade top against modern ones on a Beyblade stadium.<\/p>\n