This post is a guest post written by Will Snyder of Mighty Wonderer. You can find out more about this solar system model at the Mighty Wonderer website or on YouTube.
How do YOU teach about the solar system? If you use paper models or a model that can fit on a desk, you will want to keep reading! Typically physical models fit on a desk and show the order of the planets as well as what they look like.
But these models are inaccurate! Which is why we created a true-to-scale solar system model. Click here to see the difference!
To teach the true size of the solar system you need two things: an accurate model and some space outside.
This solar system representation from the Mighty Wonderer is a true-to-scale, outdoor educational activity that teaches the true sizes and distances of the solar system. It requires a bit of space – a football or soccer field is perfect. Why? We didn’t sacrifice accuracy in order for our model to fit in a classroom.
In this solar system kit, the sun is represented by a basketball-sized ball and each of the planets are represented by much smaller marbles and balls. The kit contains a booklet that has the walk-off distances. It also has fun facts and activities (like traveling at the speed of light). With our true-to-scale model, students are able to comprehend the vastness of our solar system by seeing its true size and scale.
We are entering a new age of space exploration, with new missions to the Moon and a goal to land humans on Mars. It’s more important than ever for our students to understand our solar system.
With a group, head outside to a football field, park, or any open space. Use a basketball or any similar sized ball to represent the sun. Place it at the starting spot (if on a football field, the starting spot would be the goal line). After that, begin walking off the planets one by one, analyzing and discussing their sizes, and distances from each other and the sun.
Walk off distances and other facts can be found on each of the planet bags, as well as in the booklet that comes with the kit.
The Holidays are Coming!
This model set is a fantastic gift for all ages! Give the gift of education and inspiration with Mighty Wonderer!
Check out our Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook for videos of the model.
Find more information about this astronomy activity at the following links:
* Meredith Anderson is an Amazon affiliate and may earn a small affiliate commission if you purchase items linked in this post. Please read the full disclosure policy here to learn more.
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