In the most literal sense, sundials have been around since the dawn of time. The height of the sun and lengths of the shadows were important markers of the seasons and the days. As stars were for navigation, the sun was for time.
And just as weve lost our ability to steer by the stars, weve lost touch with the meaning of shadows. Even so, shadows remain important to our lives. Movie directors need to know where the sun will be on a given day. Photographers need to know when they can get the perfect shot. Gardeners need to know how much shade a tree will really cast. And cavemen desperately need to make it to meetings on time.
Thus:
Brought to you by the latest in technological magnificence: a sundial. In your pocket, whenever youd like. Eschew commonplace analogue, or *gasp* digital displays. Return to a nobler, simpler time.
The sundial, though, is so much more than just a stick in the mud. No-no! View the shadow cast in multiple styles. In addition to basic tall and short vertical sticks, you can use a standard horizontal sundial design. With the latter view, hour-lines allow you to track the time even throughout the year.
With the compass and accelerometers in your device (not necessary, but helpful), the sundial reacts as youd expect as you twist and turn it, as if the shadow were real. Locate your device automatically, or select your desired place on a map.
Aside from the fun of telling the current, time, though, this sundial allows you to adjust the time, date, latitude, and longitude. How high the sun is in the sky at 5 pm? In Nepal? On your birthday? Or just watch as the shadows trace out a figure-eight through the seasons.
As always, Im interested to hear of any suggestions or features youd like.