It seems impossible that we can really study stars. They all seem so small and so far away-except for one. the Sun! Stars will show students the many amazing ways scientists look at the stars and how they can use what they see to answer questions like: What are stars made of? How far away are they? How old are stars? Students will learn about the life span of stars and the various stages they pass through, from protostar to main sequence star to red giant and eventually white and black dwarfs.

There are many ways to explore space. In Space Exploration, students will learn about the human quest to discover what’s out there. Students will see the challenges and benefits of space exploration, including the development of rocket science, a look back at the ‘Space Race’ and a history of manned space travel. A special section on the Saturn V rocket will give students insight into the extraordinary measures taken to put us on the Moon, including a fun, hands-on activity that will let them build their own rocket-complete with fuel!

The Moon is Earth’s closest neighbor in space - the only other member of our solar system that humans have actually visited. This video answers key questions about the Moon, like: What keeps it revolving around the Earth? Why do we see only one side of the Moon? What is the origin of the Moon? Students will learn about how the Moon has been studied throughout history-including recent lunar missions-and about its phases, eclipses and how it causes tides on Earth

It protects us from meteoroids and ultraviolet rays, and provides us with the air we breathe. In Earth’s Atmosphere, students will learn about the layers of our atmosphere and why each is important to the survival of life on our planet. They’ll also discover why the atmosphere is responsible for weather and see how special aircraft actually fly into the severest weather of all-hurricanes! Atmospheric pressure is covered and students will even build their own working barometer in a fun Junior (4-6), Intermediate Grades (7-8) (JI)

The universe is incredible-but the Earth is unique! In this fun and informative program, students will learn that, despite the vastness of outer space, Earth is the only place where we know life exists. Earth explains why our planet is so special. Students will learn about the factors that allow life to flourish on Earth, including our position in the solar system, the water cycle and the composition of the planet. This program includes a visit to the real Biosphere2 in Arizona, hands-on activity Junio (4-6), Intermediate Grades (7-8)(JI)