Why Do Eclipses Happen?
Source Institutions
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Astronomical Society of the Pacific
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This fun and simple hands-on astronomy activity lets learners create 3D models of the Earth, Moon and Sun to demonstrate solar and lunar eclipses. The pdf contains step-by-step instructions, photos, presentation tips, links to background information, and a schedule of lunar eclipses.
- 5 to 10 minutes
- 10 to 30 minutes
- $5 - $10 per group of students
- Ages 6 - adult
- Activity, Simulation
- English
Quick Guide
Materials List (per group of students)
- A bare light bulb or the Sun if outside
- Methods 1 and 2:
- -- "Moon balls" for your audience members. 1"-2" dylite balls work best.
- -- Skewers or toothpicks for holding your Moon
- -- (Optional) Earth Globe four times the diameter of the Moon balls
- Method 3 - this one is to scale:
- -- Yard/Meter stick
- -- 1” (2.5cm) ball on a toothpick
- -- ¼" (7 mm) bead on a toothpick
- -- Binder clips to attach toothpicks to the yard/meter stick 30 inches (75 cm) apart
- (Optional) Eclipse glasses- see Helpful Hints
Subjects
- Earth and Space Science
- Astronomy
- Earth Structure
- Earth, Moon and Sun
- Earth, Moon and Sun
- Eclipses
- Solar System
- The Sun
- The Moon
Audience
To use this activity, learners need to:
- see
- touch
Learning styles supported:
- Involves hands-on or lab activities
Other
Components that are part of this resource:
This resource is part of:
Access Rights:
- Free access
By:
Rights:
- All Rights Reserved, Astronomical Society of the Pacific, ©2008
