I have determined a few things since my last post.  The first is that the solar chargers that I show are probably crap.  I suspect that when I get the chance to crack one open I will find that they allow the batteries to discharge in the dark.  I broke down and bought a 110vac charger for my NiMH batteries and found that when fully charged my iPod battery pack will indeed charge my iPod.

I have a trip to the Grand Canyon in May.  I need a low cost dependable solar battery charging alternative.