The Kaleidoscope

A kaleidoscope is a tube you look through to see beautiful, colorful patterns. Inside are mirrors and small, colorful pieces. When you turn the tube, the pattern changes every time.

How the Kaleidoscope Was Invented

The kaleidoscope was invented in 1816 by a Scottish scientist named David Brewster. He was studying how light bounces off mirrors. He discovered that placing mirrors at certain angles inside a tube created amazing repeating patterns.

Brewster patented his invention, but it was so popular that people quickly copied it. Within months, thousands of kaleidoscopes were sold in London. People were amazed by the beautiful patterns.

How Kaleidoscopes Work

Inside a kaleidoscope, there are usually two or three mirrors placed at angles. At the end of the tube, there are small colorful beads, glass pieces, or other objects. Light passes through the colorful objects, bounces off the mirrors, and creates a symmetrical pattern.

Every time you turn the tube, the beads shift and a new pattern appears. No two patterns are exactly the same. Some artists make large, beautiful kaleidoscopes that are considered works of art.

Fun Facts

• The name kaleidoscope comes from Greek words meaning beautiful form to see.
• Within months of its invention, over 200,000 kaleidoscopes were sold in London.
• No two kaleidoscope patterns are ever exactly the same.

Did You Know?

Some kaleidoscopes use oil and colored liquid instead of beads. The colors slowly swirl and mix to make constantly changing patterns.