Product details:

Product Description Original Sphere--Rainbow (Discontinued by manufacturer) The Sphere starts small and grows larger. And vice versa. Made of rainbow-colored plastic links, the sphere expands to 30 inches in diameter and contracts to apact 9.5 inches. There's a hypnotic fascination in making the sphere expand and contract over and over again, but if kids want to do more with their sphere, a guide (included) lists some possibilities. How about trying the ballerina spin, the flip down, or the hot potato? The sphere can also be a fashion accessory. Think spiked hat or, even better, space helmet. Another option is to hang the sphere as a mobile. A pulley system is included, and a pull of the ring will cause the sphere to contract. Release the ring for expansion. Plenty of fun, the Sphere might get kids thinking about mechanical engineering and some folding/unfolding projects of their own. Winner of the Parents' Choice Award. --Wendy Slotboom