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NASA OSTEM
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ACTIVITIES
Make a Scale Solar System
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Materials
1. Learn about sizes and distances in our solar system
2. Decide what kind of model you want to build
3. Choose where your model solar system will go
4. Calculate scale distances
5. Calculate scale planet sizes
6. Calculate combined scale distance and planet size
7. Create and display your model
8. Make a Solar System on a String (scale distance model)
9. Solar System on the Sidewalk (scale distance and/or size model)
10. Solar System in the Yard (scale distance model)
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NASA OSTEM
project
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Have you ever wondered about the sizes of planets in the solar system or the distances between them? In this project, you will create your own scale model of the solar system by learning how to calculate scale distances, the relative sizes of planets, or both. Then, use beads and string, sidewalk chalk, or your own creative choice of materials to build a model you can explore â or maybe even wear!