NASA's The Incredible Two-Inch Universe Activity (Audio & ASL)

Introduction

This activity will help you explore the universe by shrinking cosmic scale in just 4 steps. Print out the instructions and cut-out templates. Follow along with the activity by listening to the narration or viewing the American Sign Language in the video podcast files.

What You'll Need

Wrap your mind around the vast distances in the universe. What you'll need: a measuring tape, 6 round images from the printable 2-inch universe PDF, a grain of salt and a wide open mind.

Step 1: The Realm of the Earth and Moon

If you shrink the earth to about 2 inches or 5 centimeters (cm) in diameter here's how other objects would compare in size and distance.

Step 2: The Realm of Our Sun the Only Star in Our Solar System

Switch scales by shrinking the minivan-sized Sun down to a 2-inch diameter.

Step 3: The Realm of Our Solar System and Nearby Stars

Shrink the entire Solar System down to 2 inches in diameter.