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In this project, you will create your own scale model of the solar system by learning how to calculate scale distances, the relative sizes of planets, or both. Then, use beads and string, sidewalk chalk, or your own creative choice of materials to build a model you can explore – or maybe even wear!
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Uranus - Student Project: Make a Scale Solar System |...
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Using scale models helps us to visualise this. In this project we'll show you how to make a model of the Solar System that shows the distances between the planets to scale. It makes for a fun science and astronomy project for kids, both at home and in school.
16 maj 2023 · Help participants understand that there is a lot of space in between planets. Using receipt paper, participants make a scale model of the distances between objects in the solar system. They learn that the distance between planets is vast. A training video is included, and materials for this activity are also available in Spanish.
In this activity, you will make a model of the planets in the solar system and specifically model their distances to scale. Will it explain why the Voyager 2 took so long? Try it and see!
distance scale 1 cm : 1 astronomical unit (note the mention of lower-case) or 149,597,870.7 km. Provide a simple ruler, a pencil, and an example, and have students make their own to take home. Tape the information onto the back of the sheet, for those who want to keep the actual numbers.
Notice that the distances and sizes of the planets will automatically fill in. I've also provided some other interesting scale comparisons at the bottom of the chart. You can now build your scale model.
This hands-on science lesson will help your students get a more accurate view of the solar system by making a scale model. They will do the calculations, make model planets, and find out where to place them so their model reflects reality.
