9 best galileo thermometers
A Galileo thermometer is a unique and decorative weather instrument that provides an approximate temperature reading based on the principle of buoyancy. It is often used as an ornamental piece for home decor and can also serve as a functional thermometer. Here are some key features and information about Galileo thermometers:
Principle of Operation: Galileo thermometers operate on the principle that the density of a liquid changes with temperature. Each thermometer consists of a sealed glass tube filled with a clear liquid, typically water, and several glass spheres of varying densities. As the temperature changes, the spheres inside the tube rise or fall to indicate the temperature.
Floating Spheres: The glass spheres are carefully weighted and have a specific density. When the temperature increases, the liquid inside the tube becomes less dense, causing the spheres to float to different levels within the liquid. Conversely, when the temperature decreases, the liquid becomes denser, causing the spheres to sink.
Temperature Range: Galileo thermometers are usually designed to measure temperatures within a specific range, such as from 60°F (15°C) to 100°F (40°C). The number of spheres and their density distribution can vary from one thermometer to another, allowing for different temperature ranges.
Decorative Design: These thermometers are known for their aesthetic appeal.They often come with a decorative wooden or metal frame and can be placed on a desk, shelf, or tabletop as a piece of functional decor. Many people appreciate the elegance of the floating spheres as they rise and fall to indicate the temperature.
Accuracy: Galileo thermometers provide a general indication of the temperature and are not as precise as digital or mercury thermometers. They are more for decorative and educational purposes rather than scientific measurement.
Educational Tool: Galileo thermometers can be used as educational tools to demonstrate the principles of buoyancy and density to children and students. They can also spark interest in meteorology and weather-related topics.
Maintenance: These thermometers require minimal maintenance. However, they should be kept away from direct sunlight and extreme temperature fluctuations to ensure accurate readings and preserve the integrity of the liquid and glass components.
Overall, Galileo thermometers offer a unique and visually appealing way to gauge the approximate temperature in a decorative and functional manner, making them a popular choice for outdoor decor and home weather instruments.
Below you can find our editor's choice of the best galileo thermometers on the market
Colorful Law of Physics Indoor Glass Galileo Thermometer
Product description
Based on a design by Galileo, this thermometer has colorful liquid-filled blown glass balls that rise and fall in the blown glass cylinder as the temperature changes. Laws of physics stimulate the inquisitive mind. Lowest bubble of top grouping shows current temperature reading. The 21" Galileo Thermometer creates a dramatic display of color and motion. Size: 20"H x 2" Dia.
- The Colorful Law of Physics Indoor Glass Galileo Thermometer provides an accurate reading of the temperature based on a design by Galileo
- This gorgeous Galileo thermometer is a work of art with blown glass balls of varying colors in a delicate blown glass cylinder
- The glass balls rise and fall within the liquid-filled cylinder to reflect changes in the temperature, and each ball has a small charm to read the temperature
- Cylinder stands 20”H x 2”diameter and sits on an attached glass stand to keep it sturdy and secure
- Size: 20"H x 2" Dia.
User questions & answers
| Question: | What is the diameter of the base for the 20" tall, 2" diameter thermometer? the 3 answers given so far cannot possibly pertain to this specific model |
| Answer: | My thermometer is 24 1/4" tall (bottom to tip of point), a bit over 2 1/8" in diameter and the base is a bit over 4 1/4" in diameter. As these are hand made, they are not all exactly the same dimensions. YMMV. |
| Question: | What is the temperature scale Celsius or Fahrenheit |
| Answer: | Good morning, Alexey. The temperature scale is Fahrenheit. I hope you find this information helpful. Adreanna, Wind & Weather Customer Service |
| Question: | how tor read temperature |
| Answer: | Thanks for your question. The lowest floating ball in the thermometer is the temperature. - Wind & Weather Customer Service |
| Question: | Are the balls in 2 degree incriments |
| Answer: | The one I have is a bit different from this one. Mine have the numbers in F and C. So F is 4 numbers difference between them but C is 2. C goes from 16C till 28C and F from 60F till 84F. |
| Question: | Is there a frame you can purchase for this |
| Answer: | Thank you for your interest. We do not carry a frame for this style but do sell 2 other styles that are framed. |
| Question: | Can you ask for your own colors |
| Answer: | Thank you for your interest. Sorry you cannot select your colors. |
| Question: | how big around is the base - 3 1/2 inches or what? I have a wood base to insert a thermometer in |
| Answer: | Thank you for your interest. The base is smaller than 3 inches in diameter. |
| Question: | I want to know the width of the 14" tall thermometer? The description gives the package dimension, not of any use. Thank you |
| Answer: | I bought it for a gift, but I have one that is 18" tall and the base is 3" wide. |
Product features
Colorful Law of Physics Indoor Glass Galileo Thermometer
he Colorful Glass Tabletop Galileo Thermometer is a dramatic display of style and science. Based on a design by Galileo, this 20" tall Galileo thermometer combines art with laws of physics to stimulate the inquisitive mind! A worldly accent for any weather lover's home or office, this analog Galileo thermometer has colorful liquid-filled balls that rise and fall in the blown-glass cylinder as the temperature changes. A small temperature charm is attached to each blown-glass ball. Lowest bubble of top grouping shows current temperature reading. This colorful Galileo thermometer sits on an attached glass stand to keep it sturdy and secure.
Glassic Gifts Galileo Thermometer (17" Tall)
Product description
These unusual thermometers contain colorful orbs which rise and fall to indicate the current temperature. Crafted of high quality glass and individually calibrated to achieve an accuracy of 2¡F, these thermometers are timeless works of art. The tag on the lowest sphere in the top group indicates the current temperature. Galileo Galilei (1564 - 1642) was an Italian physicist, mathematician, astronomer, and philosopher who played a major role in the Scientific Revolution. His findings provided the framework for Newton's laws of motion and Einstein's theory of relativity. His discovery that the density of a liquid changes in proportion to its temperature, inspired the invention and explains the accuracy of the "Galileo Thermometer".
- Tells Accurate Ambient Temperature
- Works Indoors & Outdoors
- Hand Crafted Optical Quality Glass
- Powered By Scientific Principles Discovered by Galileo Galilei (1564 Ð 1642)
- Includes Detailed Instructions & Product History Sheet
User questions & answers
| Question: | What is the liquid inside? I broke one in my home |
| Answer: | It’s called paraffin oil. It is non toxic to the touch, but don’t get any near your eyes or mouth. It is flammable so be careful about open flames util after it has been cleaned up. I suggest blotting it up with paper towels. |
Lily's Home 17 inch Glass Galileo Thermometer, A Timeless Design with 10 Multi-Colored Spheres in a Cherry Finished Wood Frame
Lily's Home
Product description
Galileo Thermometers are magnificent creations that make Galileo's 400 year old principle of relative density a functional reality. An accurate indoor thermometer encased in brilliant glass, the Galileo is the point at which art meets science. Galileos add sparkle and focus to any setting: Galileos are precisely manufactured. Each of the liquid-filled floats weighs exactly.006 grams more than the one above it in the cylinder to ensure a stately and orderly procession of ups and downs as the temperature changes. The fluid in the floats and the cylinder has to be exactly the same density for the thermometer to function properly. The fluid is non-toxic and non-hazardous, an inert oil/hydrocarbon mixture like mineral oil: Galileos are carefully packaged. The cylinder walls are laboratory grade glass, so sturdiness isn't an issue. A cardboard box sleeve surrounds a form-fitted foam case that virtually guarantees safe arrival: This fascinating, functional instrument is the point at which science meets art. Four hundred years ago Galileo discovered that specifically weighted floating bubbles would predictable rise or sink in a liquid as the temperature of that liquid is changed. These decorative glass reproductions of Galileo's discovery have glass floats precisely weighted in.006 gram increments suspended in a clear, environmentally safe, non-toxic liquid. Simply read the tag on the lowest floating bubble to read the temperature - Each tag is marked in Fahrenheit on both sides of the tag. The 17 inch measures every 4 degrees from 60 F to 94 F and is accurate to within 2 degrees with ten floats.
- SCIENCE MEETS ART: The Galileo Thermometer is an example of utilizing scientific principle to create a useful artistic piece for day-to-day use. Designed with different colored spheres of varying densities, the thermometer is able to tell the temperature accurately.
- EXCELLENT INDOOR THERMOMETER: This Galileo Thermometer from Lily's Home makes the ideal indoor thermometer. Featuring ten multi-colored spheres with gold plated tags. This thermometer works for temperatures from 60ºF to 96ºF and goes up in 4º increments.
- SAFE AND NON-TOXIC COMPONENTS: Each Galileo Thermometer from Lily's Home is made of hand-blown glass and filled with a fluid in both the cylinder and the floats that is non-toxic, non-hazardous and absolute environmentally safe. It consists of an inert oil-hydrocarbon mixture similar to mineral oil. The cylinder walls material is laboratory grade glass that ensures absolute sturdiness.
- A PERFECT GIFT IDEA: Lily's Home makes a wide array of products for every home and garden lover. Whether you're looking for a perfect gift to spruce up your friend's garden, or if you need a housewarming present, Lily's Home has something for everyone!
- MAKE A HOUSE A HOME: Lily’s Home offers beautifully designed clocks, dishware, garden decorations, and more to add a touch of style to any home. Whether you’re looking for a statement piece for your living room or looking for a way to add more color to your garden, Lily’s Home has just what you’re looking for!
SP Bel-Art, H-B DURAC Galileo Thermometer; 18 to 26C (64 to 80F), 5 Spheres, 11 in. (B62000-0800)
Product description
Size:11" Height, 64°F to 80°F Size:11" Height, 64°F to 80°F Decorative functional thermometer is a great conversation piece perfect for the home or office Research, industrial and healthcare professionals rely on SP Scienceware for their sample handling needs. Sold worldwide, Bel-Art and H-B Instrument brand laboratory supplies include over 5,000 items from safety wash bottles to fume hoods, thermometers, racks, desiccators, hydrometers, ice buckets, scoops and spoons. Custom calibration services, plastic molding, specialty coatings and wire manufacturing are also available. Wilmad-LabGlass brand laboratory glassware complements Bel-Art and H-B Instrument with over 7000 items including NMR and EPR consumables and specialty glassware, as well as custom fabrication for individual glassware, glass repair services and OEM glass parts. SP Scienceware is a division of Warminster, PA based SP Industries which also include SP Scientific laboratory, thermal management, and pharmaceutical production equipment and SP Ableware aids for daily living.
- Galileo thermometer with temperature tags attached to colorful glass balls that rise and fall to indicate room temperature
- Temperature range of 64 to 80 degrees F, in 4-degree F increments, with an accuracy of +/- 2 degrees F (1 degree C)
- Glass balls, filled with colored liquid of varying densities, rise or fall with changing temperature inside a sealed glass cylinder filled with clear liquid
- Lowest sphere in the top grouping indicates temperature
- Model has five spheres and is 11" tall
User questions & answers
| Question: | Are the increments really 2 degrees F, or 4 degrees F? Some reviewers are saying it's arriving at increments of 4 with a range up to |
| Answer: | While the labeling on the product specifies 2 degree increments, it came in increments of 4 degrees. The label on the box said 2 degree. I asked for a replacement and received another one with 4 degree increments. I then ordered one from another vendor that was labeled with 2 degree increments both in the shopping card and on the label of the package when it arrived. It was also denominated in 4 degree increments. I am suspicious that someone in the factory ran out of the products in two degrees and substituted ones with 4 degree increments. Maybe he was able to reach his quota for the day. |
| Question: | Does it have Celsius scale as well |
| Answer: | They have the same style thermometer in a celcius scale but you have to specify which you want, celcius or fahrenheit. You cannot get both in the same thermometer. |
| Question: | What liquid is inside? We broke ours and are worried it is toxic as it smells.... thanks |
| Answer: | Not sure exactly, but I'm pretty sure its some type of petroleum based liquid in the balls, with water in the tube. Looking at the MSDS, it said low toxicity, but may be flammable. Hope that helps! |
| Question: | can this be hung up |
| Answer: | It really can't be hung, it has no loop on top, and it is rather heavy. Nice gadget for standing on a surface though |
Glassic Gifts Galileo Thermometer (17" Tall)
Product description
These unusual thermometers contain colorful orbs which rise and fall to indicate the current temperature. Crafted of high quality glass and individually calibrated to achieve an accuracy of 2¡F, these thermometers are timeless works of art. The tag on the lowest sphere in the top group indicates the current temperature. Galileo Galilei (1564 - 1642) was an Italian physicist, mathematician, astronomer, and philosopher who played a major role in the Scientific Revolution. His findings provided the framework for Newton's laws of motion and Einstein's theory of relativity. His discovery that the density of a liquid changes in proportion to its temperature, inspired the invention and explains the accuracy of the "Galileo Thermometer".
- Tells Accurate Ambient Temperature
- Works Indoors & Outdoors
- Hand Crafted Optical Quality Glass
- Powered By Scientific Principles Discovered by Galileo Galilei (1564 Ð 1642)
- Includes Detailed Instructions & Product History Sheet
User questions & answers
| Question: | How many balls are there inside the tube |
| Answer: | 7 Buoyant Balls - 64-88 Degrees Max |
| Question: | Where is this made |
| Answer: | China... but imported and sold by a small family run US business. |
| Question: | how big is the base - is it 2 inches, 3 1/2 inches across or what |
| Answer: | I would say it is about 1.5 inches ! Larger than the thermometer itself. I t sits perfectly flat. I have purchased a few of these for the men in my life and they love them in their offices or homes. |
| Question: | Are balls calibrated in degrees Centigrade |
| Answer: | Usually in F - but can get celcius online.https://www.onlinesciencemall.com/products/galileo-thermometer-celsius-13-inches?variant=27343065990 |
Glassic Gifts Galileo Thermometer (13" Tall)
Glassic Gifts
Product description
What is a Galileo Thermometer and how do I read it? A Galileo Thermometer is a sealed glass column containing multiple liquid filled orbs. As the temperature changes, these orbs rise and fall to indicate the current ambient temperature (within the range of 64˚F - 80˚F). Under normal conditions, the orbs will settle into two groupings toward the top and bottom of the glass column as shown to the left. To read the Galileo Thermometer, observe the metal tags hanging from each orb. The tag on the lowest orb in the top grouping displays the current ambient temperature. If all the orbs float to the top, the temperature is below 64˚F. If all the orbs sink to the bottom, the temperature is higher than 80˚F. How does it work? Inspired by the finding of Galileo Galilei, these high quality glass thermometers demonstrate how temperature affects density and buoyancy. Each glass orb is partially filled with liquid to achieve a precise weight. A metal counterweight for each temperature is hung from the bottom of the orbs. As the temperature changes, the density of the liquid inside each orb changes, causing it to rise or fall within the column. Each thermometer is individually calibrated to achieve an accuracy of 2°F.
User questions & answers
| Question: | What is the liquid inside |
| Answer: | Its called parafin oil... it is similar to kerosene. |
| Question: | I received a lily thermometer. ever since the spheres have been piled on the botom of tube despite temperature. is something wrong? dca |
| Answer: | This is not a Lily thermometer. We are Glassic Gifts (different manufacturer). It sounds like one of the orbs broke during shipping which is a common issue. You should contact Lily for a resolution! |
| Question: | How many temperature tags does it have? And what is the tag range? Thanks |
| Answer: | It has 5 orbs with temp range of 64 degrees to 80 degrees in 4 degree increments. |
Shop LC Delivering Joy Home Decor Blue Glass Galileo Thermometer with Floating Balls Office Table Indoor Decorations Gifts Temperature Weather Desk
- MATERIAL:The thermometer is made from glass
- TEMPERATURE: Floating balls rise or fall with changing temperature
- TAG:Each floating globe has a tag that shows the temperature
- RANGE:Comes in the range of 18-26 degrees
- DIMENSIONS:Comes in the size of 11 x 2.2 inches
User questions & answers
| Question: | Are the tags gold or silver |
| Answer: | Each floating globe has Gold Metal Tag |
Product features
TEMPERATURE RANGE:
Each floating globe has a tag which shows the temperature with measure range of 18°C to 26°C.
MEASUREMENTS:
Cylinder stands 11 inches H x 2.2 inches diameter and sits on an attached glass stand to keep it sturdy and secure.
FEATURES:
Galileo thermometer with temperature tags attached to glass balls that rise and fall to indicate room temperature.
Glassic Gifts Galileo Thermometer (7" Tall)
Product description
These unusual thermometers contain colorful orbs which rise and fall to indicate the current temperature. Crafted of high quality glass and individually calibrated to achieve an accuracy of 2¡F, these thermometers are timeless works of art. The tag on the lowest sphere in the top group indicates the current temperature. Galileo Galilei (1564 - 1642) was an Italian physicist, mathematician, astronomer, and philosopher who played a major role in the Scientific Revolution. His findings provided the framework for Newton's laws of motion and Einstein's theory of relativity. His discovery that the density of a liquid changes in proportion to its temperature, inspired the invention and explains the accuracy of the "Galileo Thermometer".
- Tells Accurate Ambient Temperature
- Works Indoors & Outdoors
- Hand Crafted Optical Quality Glass
- Powered By Scientific Principles Discovered by Galileo Galilei (1564 Ð 1642)
- Includes Detailed Instructions & Product History Sheet
User questions & answers
| Question: | How accurate are these? and are different sizes more accurate |
| Answer: | They are very accurate however, the bigger the more accurate. I first bought. Little one and it does read well because there is no place for the balls to float. |
| Question: | What is the diameter of the cylinder's base |
| Answer: | The base is 2"o.d. ; the cylinder is approximately 1-1/4" o.d |
| Question: | Farenheit and Celsius |
| Answer: | Farenheit |
| Question: | what is the liquid inside the cylinder |
| Answer: | It is called parafin oil... It is similar in its properties to kerosene |
Lily's Home Galileo Thermometer, A Timeless Design That Measures Temperatures from 64ºF to 80ºF, 5 Multi-Colored Spheres (11 Inches)
Product description
Galileo Thermometers are magnificent creations that make Galileo's 400-year-old principle of relative density a functional reality. Lily's Home has created an accurate indoor thermometer encased in brilliant glass. Galileo Thermometers are precisely manufactured to ensure precise temperature readings. As the temperature of the air outside changes, so does the temperature of the liquid surrounding the bubbles. As the temperature of the liquid changes, it either expands or contracts, thereby changing its density. So, at any given density, some of the bubbles will float and others will sink. The bubble that sinks the most indicates the current temperature. Each of the liquid-filled floats weighs exactly .006 grams more than the one above it in the cylinder to provide a stately and orderly procession of ups and downs as the temperature changes. Reading the Galileo Thermometer is easy. Simply read the tag on the lowest floating bubble to read the temperature - Each tag is marked in Fahrenheit on both sides of the tag. The fluid in the floats and the cylinder has to be the same density as the thermometer to function correctly. The fluid is non-toxic and non-hazardous, an inert oil-hydrocarbon mixture like mineral oil. The cylinder walls are laboratory grade glass, so sturdiness isn't an issue. This fascinating, functional instrument is the point at which science meets art. The 11-inch thermometer measures every 4º degrees from 64º F to 80º F and is accurate to within 2º degrees with five floats. Lily’s Home offers beautifully designed clocks, dishware, garden decorations, and more to add a touch of style to any home. Whether you’re looking for a statement piece for your living room or looking for a way to add more color to your garden, Lily’s Home has just what you’re looking for!
- SCIENCE MEETS ART: The Galileo Thermometer is an example of utilizing scientific principle to create a useful artistic piece for day-to-day use. Designed with different colored spheres of varying densities, the thermometer is able to tell the temperature accurately.
- EXCELLENT INDOOR THERMOMETER: This Galileo Thermometer from Lily's Home makes the ideal indoor thermometer. Featuring five multi-colored spheres with gold plated tags. This thermometer works for temperatures from 64ºF to 80ºF and goes up in 4º increments.
- SAFE AND NON-TOXIC COMPONENTS: Each Galileo Thermometer from Lily's Home is made of hand-blown glass and filled with a fluid in both the cylinder and the floats that is non-toxic, non-hazardous and absolute environmentally safe. It consists of an inert oil-hydrocarbon mixture similar to mineral oil. The cylinder walls material is laboratory grade glass that ensures absolute sturdiness.
- A PERFECT GIFT IDEA: Lily's Home makes a wide array of products for every home and garden lover. Whether you're looking for a perfect gift to spruce up your friend's garden, or if you need a housewarming present, Lily's Home has something for everyone!
- MAKE A HOUSE A HOME: Lily’s Home offers beautifully designed clocks, dishware, garden decorations, and more to add a touch of style to any home. Whether you’re looking for a statement piece for your living room or looking for a way to add more color to your garden, Lily’s Home has just what you’re looking for!
User questions & answers
| Question: | There was no paperwork with my thermometer. How does it work? How do I tell what the temperature is |
| Answer: | Thank you for your purchase. The instructions should be on the box. If you do not have it, you read the markings that are on the lowest sphere of the group on top. This is the one that tells you the temperature. |
| Question: | What altitude works best |
| Answer: | I would think it would adjust to wherever it was placed. I bought mine when I was at sea level and now I've moved to a higher altitude. Works just fine. |
| Question: | What happens if its 63F or 81F within the room it's in |
| Answer: | If it is 63F it will show as 64F and if it is 81F it will show as 80F |
| Question: | where is this made |
| Answer: | we can not say with certainty, because our main supplier for this position is in the US, but it is likely that they are doing it in China. |
| Question: | My Galileo thermometer fell over and broke. I am interested in getting a replacement for just this piece of the set. Which one will fit with the set |
| Answer: | The Galileo website is very helpful when dealing with replacements. |
| Question: | How do you get the tube into the barometer? I can only get it in part way before it gets stuck |
| Answer: | It is best to wet the outer tube to reduce the friction. Next, push the tube in and out of the spout making small progress each time. Eventually it will make its way into the vessel but it does take some time and patience. I hope this helps. |
| Question: | The storm glass will not fit into the cut out hole in the board. The hole is too small for the storm glass. Please advise. Thank you |
| Answer: | Mine was snug too when I first got it and there are times when it isn't. My guess is there was too much humidity there is in the air. You can give it a couple days and see if it shrinks down or try and take some sand paper and open the cut out a little. |
| Question: | How deep is the wooden base? I am thinking about putting this on a ledge that is only 4" deep and am not sure if it will fit |
| Answer: | The base measures 10.5 in by 4.75 in. Also the countersinks for the thermometer and barometer are 3/16in deep. |
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