Information for Educators

Please note that the planetarium is undergoing maintenance during November. We are able to offer The Planets along with an extended tour of the universe that is connected to the curriculum you wish to cover and, and an added bonus, a live moon phases demonstration for field trips scheduled during November 2009. Please call 852-6665 for details.

Check out Astronaut, our newest space show!

What is Astronaut?

Biology, physics, astronomy...space exploration has it all! The exploration of space is the greatest endeavor that humankind has ever undertaken. What does it take to be part of this incredible journey? Experience a rocket launch from inside the body of an astronaut. Explore the amazing worlds of inner and outer space, from floating around the International Space Station to maneuvering through microscopic regions of the human body. Presented in stunning high definition immersive video and explosive surround sound, Astronaut is an experience like nothing on Earth.

Astronaut Resources and Curricular Materials for Educators

Please visit our new Online Field Trip Planner to assist you in planning and implementing a successful field trip.

Education Materials for Classroom Use

Topics to Discuss with your Class Before Your Visit...

Have a discussion with your students about the Solar System by asking them:

What is their favorite planet and why?
How are all of the planets similar, how are they different?
What are they looking forward to seeing and learning on their Planetary field trip?

After Your Visit...

Break your class into teams and have each team investigate one planet indepth. They can research and design a poster or travel brochure about the planet that includes images, (see Educator Online Resources for helpful websites).

Design and build a scale model of the solar system. Suggestions for how to do this with your students can be found at: www.exploratorium.edu/ronh/solar_system/.

Think like a scientist by exploring some planetary mysteries that enable your students to examine the evidence and come to their own conclusions. Visit http://ology.amnh.org and choose "Earth ology." Select the Planetary Mysteries activity to get started.

Have a Pluto debate with your class. Questions to address include:

In what way is Pluto like a planet?
How is Pluto different than the other planets?
Do you think Pluto should be considered a planet? Support your answer with data.

The Gheens Science Hall and Rauch Planetarium is located on the University of Louisville's Belknap Campus and is under the management of the College of Education and Human Development. The planetarium is uniquely positioned to offer technology and educational experiences that connect people to the universe and science in exciting and engaging ways.

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Gheens Science Hall and Rauch Planetarium