Take a Walk Through Our Solar System
- note:
- This "walk through the solar system" takes about 2/3 of a
mile each way; be sure you have the time and the space
needed to complete it
- Objective:
- To model the correct size of and distance between the planets;
- To show why it's called "space;" the vast emptiness between the
planets
- Activity:
- Find objects to represent the sun and planets and then take a walk, putting the planets at their correct distances from the sun as you go.
- Materials:
- Solar System Scale Model Table (SSSMT)
- Objects to represent the sun (4" radius) and each of the nine
planets (the correct sizes are both pictured on the following page and shown on the SSSMT)
- Something to keep the planets at the correct spot, such as tape
- Procedure:
- Familiarize yourself with the SSSMT so you can plot your walk. Decide whether to use 15" or 18" paces, depending on the size of your students.
- Have the students use the SSSMT ( see column r (in)) and the planet size page to find the correct size objects to represent the sun and planets. Remember that the SSSMT shows the radius of the planets; the diameter is twice that size.
- Before taking the walk, be sure your students understand why their "planets" are so small - that the sizes of planets and distances you will be walking are representative of the real sizes and distances, but on a much smaller scale. The real sizes (see Radius (km)) and distances (see Orbit r (km)) can be found on the SSSMT if you choose to go over them with your students.
- Start your walk by placing your "sun" at the start. Walk 22 paces (if you are using 15" paces) or 19 paces (if using 18" paces) and place "Mercury" there. Walk 19 more paces (15" paces) or 16 more (18" paces) and place "Venus" there. (For each planet distance on the SSSMT, the number of paces is the number you walk from the sun. If you are counting the paces from one planet to the next, you must subtract the number of paces you've already walked from the number of paces your next planet is from the sun before continuing.) Continue the walk until you reach and place "Pluto."
return