Making a Comet in the Classroom

Young scientists investigate the elements found in our solar system and then construct a model of a comet. They apply their new knowledge to the formation of the solar system. 

Rarely do you find resources that reach high school astronomy learners. Here is something at their level! The physics of flyby missions is explained via several examples. Landing, penetrating, and roving spacecraft are examined. Diagrams...

Follow along as host Jessi and her mouse sidekick, Squeaks, examine space's comets and asteroids. Discover what they are made of, their size, where we can find them, and two of the more popular space objects of the group.

A detailed look at comets. Content outlines our observational history, as well as the origins of comets and an explanation of the appearance of comets.

What happens when a comet full of 'volatiles' comes to close to the sun? The volatiles ignite, creating a long gaseous tail. Are there differences between meteors and comets? Leading scientists and CG graphics help differentiate the two...

Students create a model of a comet. In this space science lesson, students compare their model to the characteristics of a real comet. They evaluate and make necessary modifications to their original design.

This site from the National Space Science Data Center provides information on the Giotto mission which was designed to study Comet P/Halley. The spacecraft encountered Halley on March 13, 1986 and approached to within 600 km. This page...

As the dusty tail of a comet pass near Earth, particles fly off and burn up in Earth's atmosphere creating beautiful meteor showers. Learn about the Perseid Meteor Shower and the NASA space craft that make it possible for us to know when...

For thousands of years people have observed comets as they pass through the solar system, but could there be more to these celestial bodies than meets the eye? Watch this video to learn how these objects have recently been found to...

A fantastic collection of information about the solar system. Includes information on all of the planets, the moon, the sun, asteroids, comets, meteoroids, and stars. Also find puzzles, a dictionary, quizzes, classroom activities, and...