Distilling Water From The Sun

Understanding the basics of distilling water from the sun could come in very handy in a wilderness survival situation. One of the reasons why a tarp or sheet of plastic sheeting is listed on any good wilderness survival gear list is because either one can be used to collect or distill water from the sun.

This method is especially helpful in areas where it is hot during the day and yet, gets downright cold at night. Even in the driest desert this method of distilling water from the sun can be used to provide water.

The first step in solar water distillation is to dig a hole that’s about three feet across and about 18-24 inches deep. Place a pan or some type of container in which to collect the water in the bottom of the pit. Use the tarp or plastic sheeting cover the hole using rocks around the edges to hold it in place. Continue...