The original moonsticks were constructed of index stock (stiff paper).  The markings and edges were printed and the pieces were cut out and folded.  The rulers consisted of four panels.  The first and forth panel would overlap once folded.  Only four pieces of tape secured the whole assembly, two pieces to close the straps and two pieces to secure them to ruler 0 (formerly tube 0).  These moonsticks were (of course) very fragile.  A lucky one would survive for about a week before someone crushed it.  The need for more durable construction became very obvious.

The current production model (the one shown on this site) is made of plastic (ABS).  The markings are created with surface paint covered by a protective coating.  We had hoped to have the markings "below the surface" (engraved and then painted), but technical obstacles were encountered that made the cost prohibitive.  Perhaps the difficulties can eventually be overcome.

Tests performed on the markings indicated that the moonstick could be used everyday for 10 years without appreciable wear to the markings.  The adhesive used to attach the straps to ruler 0 was also tested.  These tests indicated that the straps would likely break before they would come unglued.  One of our testers has used one of these models for 7 months.  He is not gentile with it in the least.  When he takes it with him, he carelessly throws it into his box of "stuff".  As this is written, he computes the night of the next full moon (the night of May 17/18, 2000 UT-5h).  He notices no problems with its operation.