Las Cumbres Observatory
The Cosmic Distance Ladder: Parallax
Scientists don't have a ruler long enough to measure to the stars, so they rely on math. Scholars learn to calculate the distance from Earth to a star using the parallax method. They use angle measures from different perspectives to...
McGraw Hill
Stellar Parallax Interactive
How are scientists able to measure distances between stellar bodies? Turns out it's not very easy! Learners explore the process of trigonometric parallax as the method of determining these distances. They experience the same challenges...
Urbana School District
Light
You matter, unless you multiply yourself by the speed of light ... then you energy. Presentation covers the behavior of light as both a wave and a particle, light versus sound, space travel, why objects have colors, depth perception,...
Curated OER
When a Ruler is Too Short
Young scholars measure distances using parallax. In this math lesson, students explain how this method helped astronomers with their studies of the solar system. They determine the length of their arm using parallax and compare it with...
Curated OER
Three D Constellations
Students address a major misconception in astronomy, the understanding of scale. The lesson is designed to introduce students to both celestial coordinates and to the first rung on the distance determination ladder, parallax.
Curated OER
Distances to Stars
Students explore the idea of parallax. In this astronomy lesson, students study the distances of stars. They investigate how parallax can be used to determine these distances.
Curated OER
Discovering Planet X
Students investigate the movements of the planet Pluto. Students participate in a hands-on activity to record data similar to the movements of the planet Pluto. Students compare their data to that found on a website.
Curated OER
Distance And Parallax
Students will determine distances to nearby stars using parallax. In this Astronomy lesson plan, students will use a web program, trigonometry, and sketches to determine the distance of stars.
Curated OER
Using Parallax to Determine Distances
Students study parallax and what it is used for. In this distance lesson students complete an activity that allows students to get experience using a parallax.
Curated OER
Three D Constellations
Students are introduced to both celestial coordinates and to the first rung on the distance determination ladder. They convert spherical coordinates to Cartesian coordinates to construct a three dimensional model of a constellation...
Curated OER
Looking Back in Time (Alternative Activity)
Students, in groups, devise alternative ways of measuring distances. They view a video and are introduced to the concept of parallax in measuring. They discuss their ideas with the class.
Curated OER
Using Parallax to Determine Distances
Young scholars examine the concept of parallax. They determine a method to calculate the distance of objects from their data, participate in a demonstration, and describe how our eyes use parallax to determine the distance of objects.
Science Buddies
Science Buddies: Similar Triangles: Using Parallax to Measure Distance
Want to stretch your imagination? One good way is to try to imagine how far it is to a distant star. How much farther away is it than the moon is from the earth? In this project, you'll learn one way of measuring the distance without...
PBS
Pbs Learning Media: How Big Is Our Universe?
This interactive resource from Harvard Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics uses images and activities to understand the scope and scale of our universe. Featured are technologies used by generations of explorers.
Rice University
Galileo Project: The Copernican System
This site from The Galileo Project of Rice University contains information relating to Copernicus's sun-centered solar system theory. Pictures are provided throughout this article along with links to additional information.
Annenberg Foundation
Annenberg Learner: Alien Eyes
Explore parallax which causes each of your eyes to produce slightly different images. Then imagine yourself an alien and try to predict which images each of your four eyes see.
National Council of Teachers of Mathematics
The Math Forum: Measuring Distances Triangulation
Lesson plan which details how to have students determine the distance to an object by sighting it from two different locations and knowing the distance between these locations. As an advanced alternative, trigonometry can be used to...
Physics Classroom
The Physics Classroom: Reflection and Ray Model of Light: Why an Image Is Formed
This illustrated physics tutorial uses animations to attempt to explain to students why images appear.
CK-12 Foundation
Ck 12: Earth Science: Distance Between Stars Study Guide
This comprehensive study guide covers the main terms and concepts needed for an earth science unit on the distance between stars. Review questions are included at the bottom of the study guide.
PBS
Pbs Teachers: Demonstrating the Distances of Stars
Investigate the use of the parallax effect for determining distance in space, and explore the arrangement and relative distance of stars in the galaxy. Create a sample star field and transform it into a three-dimensional model.
ClassFlow
Class Flow: Astronomy Parallax
[Free Registration/Login Required] This flipchart explains the significance of Delta Cephei in the constellation Cepheus and its historical significance in determining distances in space. It discusses parallax, standard candles, and the...
Oswego City School District
Regents Exam Prep Center: Error in Measurement
What are the common errors made when students take measurements and how can they be avoided? A good deal of vocabulary associated with measurement errors is explained. Tips are provided for the student and the teacher in hopes of...
Curated OER
Rice University: The Copernican System
This site from The Galileo Project of Rice University contains information relating to Copernicus's sun-centered solar system theory. Pictures are provided throughout this article along with links to additional information.