Scale distance solar system

How accurate is a scale solar system?

Some scale models show just scale distances, some show just scale planet sizes, while some display both. An accurate size and distance scale model in which Mercury, the smallest planet, is 1 mm across would require about half a mile to properly display the distance from the Sun to Neptune. There are scale solar systems all over the world.

How do students calculate scale distances between planets?

Using spreadsheet software, students will determine the size of and/or distances between planets on a solar system model that fits on a playground. Decide in advance if students will calculate scale distance from the Sun to the planets, scale size of planets or both.

How do you scale a solar system?

Decide on the diameter of Earth in your scale model. Keep in mind that a 1-cm Earth means the scale distance from the Sun to Neptune is about two miles. Consider making your scale Earth just a few millimeters across. To calculate the scale solar system, you'll need to work with proportions and ratios, as shown in this equation.

How do astronomers measure the size of our Solar System?

The best way to appreciate the size of our solar system is by creating a scaled model of it that shows how far from the sun the eight planets are located. Astronomers use the distance between Earth and sun, which is 93 million miles, as a new unit of measure called the Astronomical Unit.

How do I create a scale solar system model?

Choose one of the links below to view procedures for creating the scale solar system model of your choice: Have students open the Scale Distance spreadsheet, or guide them through creating a similar spreadsheet layout. With students, point out the distances in astronomical units (au) from the Sun to each planet.

How do I calculate scaled planet diameters & planet-Sun distances?

Calculate the scaled planet diameters and planet-sun distances for a solar system model. Enter scale or diameter or distance, select to show table and/or map below, select options, then press Calculate. Please enter scale or diameter or distance from sun. Orbits of objects beyond Neptune are highly eccentric ellipses, not circles. Map not shown.