DISCOVERING ASTRONOMY PATCH PROGRAM
Purchase this patch if you have explored space in school, went to a planetarium or space museum
All levels need to only complete 3 requirements

Discovering- To learn more about a subject or group that interests you. To find out information that was not previously known.

1. Astronomy is the study of matter in outer space. Astronomers learn about the universe using specialized equipment. Choose one type of equipment to learn more about. Examples include: radio and optical telescopes, a space station, long-distance probes, satellites, and retrievable spacecrafts (Shuttles).

2. The moon orbits the earth. As it orbits the earth it projects different phases or shapes in the sky. How many days does it take to orbit the earth? What makes the moon spin? What is the date that the first person that landed on the moon and who was it? For extra credit, learn more about the moon’s temperature, structure, and the eight phases of the moon in the night sky.

3. Discover more about the solar system. Name the nine prominent planets of the solar system. Choose one planet to learn more about, such as the color, size, number of moons, and distance from the sun. For extra credit make a picture of the solar system. The solar system is the sun and everything that revolves around it.

4. Comets are a combination of ice, dust and gases that orbit the sun in great oval orbits. They add a tail as they approach the sun. Choose one of the following items to learn more about: asteroids, shooting stars, meteors. Meteorites, space stones, or comets. For extra credit create a picture or art project depicting one of these items.

5. Stars are grouped together in huge collections called galaxies. There are millions of stars in each galaxy. What is the closest star to the earth and how do we measure the distance? What color of star is the hottest and which is the coolest? What is the brightest star and which star is the closest to Earth? What galaxy do we live in and how did it get its name?

6. The study of the stars, galaxy and universe started in 3100 BC. Choose a landmark in the timeline of astronomy to learn more about. Note the date and the discovery. Examples are first telescope or space probe.

7. Select a famous astronomer or astronaut to learn more about. Where were they born and what did they accomplish? Examples: Isaac Newton, Ptolemy, Albert Einstein, and Neil Armstrong.

8.Would you like to be an astronomer in your own home or backyard? There are several items that can assist you in getting familiar with the universe. Choose one piece of equipment to learn more about or use. Examples are: star maps, binoculars, planisphere, telescope or camera.

9. Star patterns are called constellations. Choose two constellations; learn their name, where it is located and its pattern in the sky. For extra credit draw the pattern on a piece of black paper.

10. Choose two space related words to learn more about. Examples include gravity, orbit, core, crater, solar, eclipse, aurora, observatory, NASA, or black hole.

11. Have a themed event or fun with your family. Create space, alien, or astronaut themed food, drinks or decorations. Refer to the ‘Recipe and Craft’ section in our kit.

12. Let’s have fun with astronomy. Play a game, complete a word search, create a craft or enjoy a party with an outer space theme. Some suggestions are alien themed games, robot walk, alien in hiding, and glow in the dark moon rocks. Refer to the ‘Games’ section in our kit.

13. Be creative and make something that has a space life or astronomy theme. Examples include spaceships, moon cakes, paper plate sun or a straw rocket. Refer to the ‘Crafts’ section in our kit.

14. Learn more about astronomy or outer space by visiting a planetarium, air and space museum, or exhibit that is astronomy related.

15. Learn more about astronauts or their equipment by reading a book, browsing the internet, visiting a museum or attending a show. Some items include helmets, space suits, robot collections, vehicles or astronaut food. For extra, create a craft or try astronaut food.

16. Watch a movie or read a book about astronomy or space related items.