PROGRAMME OFFERINGS

Although the modules we present are similar to those we run in the Island Planetarium, they are modified to suit presentation in your school. We have evaluation and other material for school visits and the longer period we are with you will improve the understanding and enjoyment of your pupils. Please choose from the following topics those you would like us to present, then together we can agree a format and timetable for the day:

A - SEASONS - length of day and night
On the tellurian - All Key Stages
This popular topic explains clearly why the length of day changes throughout the year. Why the height of the sun in the sky changes and why we get different seasons as the earth orbits the sun, spinning on its tilted axis.

B - Phases of the Moon & Eclipses
Model/board/video - Key Stages 2/3
As the moon orbits the earth, one side is lit by the sun and one side is in darkness. This module explains why, to an observer on earth, we see more or less of the lit side as we go through the month.
As the moon goes around the earth on its inclined orbit, sometimes it covers exactly the disc of the sun (as it did on 11th August 1999) and why sometimes the earth's shadow makes the moon go orange (as on 4th May 2004).

C - A Tour of the Planets
Planetarium video - All Key Stages
Tour the solar system with a close up view of each planet. We look at sizes, distances, how they orbit the sun and the major differences between each planet.

D - Northern Stars, and rotating Earth
Planetarium - All Key Stages
Find some of the most prominent constellations in the sky, learn how to find the pole star, find a compass in the sky, and how to navigate with the stars. Discover the stars which never set and why it seems as if the stars turn around the Earth.

The above modules are a standard SPACEDAY. The additional modules below replace 'D', if more appropriate to your needs.

E - Revolving Earth - Our Earth in Space
Planetarium - Key Stage 3
Why do the patterns of stars change the way they do throughout the year? This module explains how the earth's movements changes our perspective of the stars.

F - Constellation origins & Greek Myths
Planetarium - All Key Stages
Learn about why we see the patterns of stars that we do. Who thought of them and what do they show? Your astronomer will guide you through the constellations, weaving tales of heroes and villains, monsters and magic.

For SPACEDAYS to run smoothly and to your satisfaction, we need a teacher contact to agree all arrangements prior to our visit. This teacher must have the authority to make commitments of the hall, classrooms and support staff and be present and assist us on the day. The number of support staff needed will depend upon how many pupils are participating in the day but it will be a minimum of one person for each class. Between the main presentations, there are video sequences, quizzes, tests and interactive games and puzzles for the pupils, which are supervised by your staff.

ASTRONOMY TO GO! PROGRAMME COSTS

SPACE DAY- Six hour session - £400. Two by three hours sessions - Two by 60 students
MORNING - Three hour session - £300. Up to 60 students and two additional presentations of 40 minutes each for other classes.

Space Requirements for the Dome

The dome fits into a hall or gymnasium which is at least 7m by 7m across and 4m clear height. As a guide, if the hall is less than 11m by 7m it is necessary to have at least two other classrooms in which our astronomers can undertake work with models, video and use the tellurian.

Please email us here for more information and availability.