People might be able to breath there. Learners view a simulation of a planet passing in front of a star. Using data from occultations of planets with known types of atmospheres, scholars determine whether the simulated planet has an atmosphere. Individuals create planets with or without atmospheres from household materials. To finish, they use an LED light to simulate a planet occultation and determine whether the planet has an atmosphere.

Concepts

stars, dwarf planets, planets, planetary motion, the atmosphere

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Additional Tags

science

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Instructional Ideas

• Present a mini lesson on apparent motion

Classroom Considerations

• Requires using a Flash presentation or video clips
• Collect a variety of materials to create planets with and without atmospheres

Pros

• Includes background information to use as part of a class discussion
• Provides suggestions for activity extensions

Cons

• None