The Great Learning Spot:

Introduction to the Jupiter Activities



In the night sky, Jupiter looks to us like a very bright star, the fourth brightest object in the sky after the Sun, Moon, and Venus. However, it is too far away for detailed, naked-eye observational activities! Here, instead, are some fun, hands-on learning experiences which will give students the chance to put Jupiter and the solar system in perspective.

In the brief story of Jupiter, we have tried to compare Jupiter and its moons with the other planets. Although the combinations of features on Jupiter and its moons are extremely unique, the individual features themselves are common in the complex and diverse solar system.

The following activities will help students place Jupiter within the scheme of the colorful solar system, and help them understand how magnetic fields and gravity affect Jupiter and its little moons. The most complex activity involves the building of a small radio telescope, whereby students will be able to hear Jupiter's atmosphere as it is bombarded by volcanic particles from the tiny moon, Io.


Back to the story of Jupiter

About the Astronomy in Motion Project

To the HEAD Science Education Page These pages designed by Tania Ruiz. Last updated Oct. 2, 1995.