Space Systems: Stars and Solar System Activities

Explore astronomy through hands-on observations, shadow investigations, and gravity experiments that connect Earth to the cosmos.

Solar Observations

Star Brightness

Gravity Effects

Astronomical Patterns

Activity 4.1: Shadow Clock Construction Project

Students build and calibrate sundials to understand Earth's rotation and seasonal changes

3-4 class periods + monitoring

Groups of 3-4

Earth's Rotation

Implementation Support & Safety

Outdoor Safety Protocols

Never look directly at the sun during any observations
Provide sun protection (hats, sunscreen) for extended outdoor work
Ensure safe pathways for nighttime stargazing activities
Have first aid supplies available for outdoor investigations
Check weather conditions before outdoor activities
Establish clear boundaries and supervision for all outdoor work

Equipment Management

Test all electronic equipment before activities
Have backup batteries and equipment available
Create equipment checkout and return procedures
Protect sensitive instruments from weather
Establish safe storage for long-term projects
Train students in proper equipment handling

Data Collection Support

Create standardized data collection templates
Provide backup data recording methods
Establish data sharing and collaboration protocols
Use technology tools for accurate measurements
Create visual aids for complex concepts
Develop peer review processes for data quality

Space Systems: Stars and Solar System Activities

Explore astronomy through hands-on observations, shadow investigations, and gravity experiments that connect Earth to the cosmos.

Solar Observations

Star Brightness

Gravity Effects

Astronomical Patterns

Activity 4.1: Shadow Clock Construction Project

Students build and calibrate sundials to understand Earth's rotation and seasonal changes

3-4 class periods + monitoring

Groups of 3-4

Earth's Rotation

Implementation Support & Safety

Outdoor Safety Protocols

Never look directly at the sun during any observations
Provide sun protection (hats, sunscreen) for extended outdoor work
Ensure safe pathways for nighttime stargazing activities
Have first aid supplies available for outdoor investigations
Check weather conditions before outdoor activities
Establish clear boundaries and supervision for all outdoor work

Equipment Management

Test all electronic equipment before activities
Have backup batteries and equipment available
Create equipment checkout and return procedures
Protect sensitive instruments from weather
Establish safe storage for long-term projects
Train students in proper equipment handling

Data Collection Support

Create standardized data collection templates
Provide backup data recording methods
Establish data sharing and collaboration protocols
Use technology tools for accurate measurements
Create visual aids for complex concepts
Develop peer review processes for data quality

Space Systems: Stars and Solar System Activities

Activity 4.1: Shadow Clock Construction Project

Activity Overview & Learning Objectives

Materials & Site Preparation

Construction & Calibration Procedure

Assessment & Extensions

Implementation Support & Safety

Outdoor Safety Protocols

Equipment Management

Data Collection Support

Space Systems: Stars and Solar System Activities

Activity 4.1: Shadow Clock Construction Project

Activity Overview & Learning Objectives

Materials & Site Preparation

Construction & Calibration Procedure

Assessment & Extensions

Implementation Support & Safety

Outdoor Safety Protocols

Equipment Management

Data Collection Support