Astronomy
In our study of astronomy, we explore our solar system and its components. We also examine how our Sun, Moon, and Earth system creates patterns of motion, causing seasons, eclipses, and phases of the Moon. We also study the Earth's place in our Milky Way galaxy and its place in the universe.
The Universe
Where in the Milky Way Galaxy are we located? What causes stars to stay in orbit? Where is the Milky Way Galaxy located? These are the questions you should be able to answer from our study of The Universe. Click on the links below for resources to help you understand the vastness of the Universe.
The Stars of the Galaxies
We know the universe is made up of billions of galaxies. But what are galaxies made of? The biggest things that galaxies are made of are stars! How are stars different? Do they change? Are they born? Do they die? These are some of the questions that two scientists named Hertzsprung and Russell asked. They measured the stars and organized that data into a diagram called the HR Diagram. Use these links to learn more about the stars of the galaxy.
The Electromagnetic Spectrum
Use these links below to explore the wavelengths of light we call the electromagnetic spectrum (or EM spectrum). How can you remember them in order? Click the link from the Bonus Point Band for a catchy tune!
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Galaxies - "Island Universes"
What is a galaxy? What is in a galaxy (like our own Milky Way galaxy)? How do we measure distances within galaxies and between galaxies? Use these resources to get you started on understanding the components of galaxies and the huge distances between them.
What are galaxies? If this is called "the local group," what makes it local? Click here to learn the basics of galaxies.
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Black Holes
What is a black hole? What do they mean when they talk about the singularity? What would happen if you could travel near a black hole? Click here to learn more about black holes.
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What do a 100 million stars look like? Click on the video above to see for yourself. Click here to read an article about the video.
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What is a light year?
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What is a light year? Click here to see a short video about this unit of distance we use to measure how far away things are in our Universe.
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How Small Are We in the Scale of the Universe?
Click here to view a short video that sums up our current understanding of our place in the Universe.
Click here to view the trailer for the movie about the Hubble repair mission.
Click here to view a short video that sums up our current understanding of our place in the Universe.
Click here to view the trailer for the movie about the Hubble repair mission.