Introduction
This activity will help you explore the universe by shrinking cosmic scale in just 4 steps. Print out the instructions and cut-out templates. Follow a...
NASA's The Incredible Two-Inch Universe Activity (Audio & ASL)
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About
A NASA-Smithsonian Universe Forum Publication :: This activity will help you explore the universe by shrinking cosmic scale in just 4 steps. Print out the instructions and cut-out templates (printer-friendly PDFs at http://chandra.harvard.edu/resources/podcasts/2inch/). Follow along with the activity by listening to the narration or viewing the American Sign Language in the video podcast files.
What You'll Need
Wrap your mind around the vast distances in the universe. What you'll need: a measuring tape, 6 round images from the printable 2-inch universe PDF, a...
Step 1: The Realm of the Earth and Moon
If you shrink the earth to about 2 inches or 5 centimeters (cm) in diameter here's how other objects would compare in size and distance.
Step 2: The Realm of Our Sun the Only Star in Our Solar System
Switch scales by shrinking the minivan-sized Sun down to a 2-inch diameter.
Step 3: The Realm of Our Solar System and Nearby Stars
Shrink the entire Solar System down to 2 inches in diameter.
Step 4: The Realm of Galaxies
Switch scales one last time, and shrink the entire continent-sized galaxy down to 2 inches.
Going Further
You can use this 4-STEP SCALE MODEL to imagine some of the distances involved in NASA's explorations of the universe.
Reflection Questions
How likely do you think it is that there is life elsewhere in our galaxy? Intelligent life? What challenges are there in trying to communicate with an...