What historical cultures used solar stills for water collection?

Ancient Water Collection Methods

The Aztecs, who lived in what is now Mexico, used solar stills to collect water from saltwater sources. They built shallow pools and lined them with clay or stone to reduce evaporation. By placing a collection container in the center of the pool, they allowed the sun to evaporate the water, which then condensed and dripped into the container.

Polynesian Navigation and Water Collection

Polynesians, skilled navigators and sailors, used solar stills to collect water during their long voyages across the Pacific. They built simple stills using coconut shells or other organic materials, which they placed in shallow pools or depressions. By weighing down the center of the still with a rock or shell, they created a depression that collected the condensed water. This technique allowed them to collect up to 1 liter of water per hour, even in arid environments.

Building a Solar Still

To build a simple solar still, gather a shallow pool or depression, a collection container, a weighing device (such as a rock or shell), and a clear plastic sheet or tarp. Place the collection container in the center of the pool and weigh down the center of the still using the weighing device. Cover the pool with the plastic sheet, weighing it down with rocks or sand. As the sun heats the water, it will evaporate and condense on the underside of the plastic sheet, dripping into the collection container.