Hoberman Original Mini Sphere Firefly Glow

Hoberman Original Mini Sphere Firefly Glow

The Hoberman Sphere is an expanding and contracting ball. It cleverly combines mathematics and geometry to create a surprising motion that fascinates children and adults alike. The basic shape of the Mini Sphere is a trapezoidal icositetrahedron which is different to that of the larger Original Sphere.

The structure of the Mini Sphere comprises lots of small glow-in-the-dark plastic links joined together in pairs which fold and unfold in a scissor-like motion. Grab the Mini Sphere by a link at each side, pull outwards and it will expand from 14 cm in diameter to 30 cm. Give it a slight push and it will contract back to its original size! This patented method of folding was discovered by Chuck Hoberman, an inventor with degrees in art and mechanical engineering. The Mini Sphere is rigid enough that you can throw it, kick it, bounce it and it comes with an activity sheet detailing some fun tricks and activities you can do with it. Here are some of them:
Finger Spin
Hold opposite hubs with thumb and forefinger. With the Sphere almost open, quickly flick hubs with your thumbs. Flex fingers out of the way to twirl Mini the Sphere backwards on the inside of your fingers. Push in gently to spin it closed.
Pop-Up
Hold upper hub at top with the Mini Sphere in semi-open position. Tap up on bottom hub as you let go. The Mini Sphere will close and open in the air. Be ready to catch it before it falls!
Table Spin Spin the Mini Sphere in its open position on a tabletop or smooth surface. Tap it on top and watch it swoosh closed and then open again.
Box Contains
1 Hoberman Mini Sphere in Firefly glow-in-the-dark colour style
1 Mini Sphere Game and Activity Ideas sheet

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