Spinthariscope

A Spinthariscope is a device for the visualization of ionizing radiation by means of scintillation. It was developed in 1903 by William Crookes. Today, a scintillation counter is used instead of a Spinthariskops.

The operation of the Spinthariskops based on the fluorescent effect of the α - radiation on zinc sulfide. In conventional devices you can see in total darkness and waits long enough until the eyes are dark adapted, recognize up to 150 flashes of light ( = radioactive decay ) per second.