Desktop Constellations

Students will draw constellations on their desktops with dry erase crayons. They will identify the stars' absolute magnitudes for the brightest stars in the constellation. Students will explore the meaning of absolute magnitude vs. apparent magnitude in a 3D environment. Students will write explanations for how the stars in a constellation can appear to be of similar magnitude and similar distances away from the observer even if their true data shows they are very different.

Resource ID#: 156534 Type: Lesson Plan

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General Information

Subject(s): Science

Grade Level(s): 8

Intended Audience: Educators

Suggested Technology: Computer for Presenter, Computers for Students, Internet Connection, LCD Projector, Smart Phone/Tablet

Instructional Time: 1 Hour(s) 30 Minute(s)

Keywords: stars, constellations, absolute magnitude, apparent magnitude, light year, constellation, night sky, brightness

Instructional Component Type(s): Lesson Plan

Resource Collection: St. Lucie MSP K-8

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