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The Hygrothermograph

Visitors to The Hess Art Museum sometimes notice our hygrothermograph in The West Gallery. It simultaneously measures relative humidity and ambient temperature within the gallery. Static pen tips and a rotating drum create a 7-day chart.⁠

⁠The humidity arm is controlled by strands of human hair which expand and contract with humidity (like how your hair tends to curl up when it rains).⁠

Hygrothermograph Hair Bundle

The temperature arm is attached to a calibrated spring that expands and contracts with the temperature. Readings from these machines are remarkably accurate.⁠

Hypothermograph Chart at the Hess Museum


The unique and unexpected corners of the Hess Art Museum are the highlight of many of our experiences. We’d love to host you for a vist – plan a trip today.

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