======Scale Model of the Solar System======


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**Materials: **{{$demo.materials_description}}\\
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**Alternative titles:** Make a Scale Solar System
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====Summary====                   
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====Procedure====  
  - Learn about astronomical units (AU) and the distances between planets.  
  - Decide whether your model will show scale distances, scale sizes, or both.  
  - Choose a location for your model (indoors, outdoors, or across a large space).  
  - For scale distances:  
    - Multiply each planet’s AU by a chosen scale factor (e.g., 10 cm per AU).  
    - Mark each planet’s position using string, chalk, or stakes.  
  - For scale sizes:  
    - Choose a size for Earth (e.g., 1 cm diameter).  
    - Multiply by each planet’s relative size factor to calculate their scale diameters.  
    - Represent planets using beads, chalk circles, or cutouts.  
  - For combined distance and size:  
    - Use proportional equations to calculate both distances and diameters at the same scale (requires a very large area).  
  - Display your model using one of these methods:  
    * String model with beads or washers  
    * Sidewalk chalk model  
    * Outdoor yard model with stakes or cones



====Links==== 
Creating a Scale Model of the Solar System: DIY Activity - Science4Breakfast: 
{{youtube>0TYdq6LQyDY?}}\\

Let's Make a Scale Model of the Solar System! - Jefferson Lab: 
{{youtube>QBlDf0iGaQs?}}\\

📄 Make a Scale Solar System - NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory: [[https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/edu/resources/project/make-a-scale-solar-system/]]\\


====Variations====
  * Make a wearable necklace or bracelet solar system using beads.  
  * Create a classroom wall display with string and paper cutouts.  
  * Use mapping software to plot scale planets across a neighborhood (+research the Sweden solar system).  
  * Add artistic touches by coloring planets to match real appearances.



====Safety Precautions====
  * Use scissors carefully when cutting string or paper.  
  * Be cautious with chalk or stakes in public walkways to avoid tripping hazards.  
  * If working outdoors, ensure markers are visible and the area is safe for walking.




====Questions to Consider====
  * Why is it difficult to show both planet size and distance at the same scale? (Because planets are tiny compared with the vast distances between them.)  
  * How does an astronomical unit (AU) help scientists describe distances? (It simplifies large numbers by using Earth–Sun distance as a reference.)  
  * Which planets are closest together in distance, and which are farthest apart?  
  * If Earth were the size of a marble, how big would the Sun be at the same scale?  
  * What surprises you most about the solar system’s size—planet diameters or distances?