A working model of the planetary system with a 'Star dome' making it a versatile aid for teaching basic astronomy. The planetarium comprises a circular base on which the model planets revolve around the Sun at their correct relative speeds. The upper edge of the base has a calendar and a degree scale for setting the planetary positions. The star dome is of the northern hemisphere.
- Supplied with teaching manual covering history; the Sun; planets; comets and space exploration as well as useful tips for demonstration.
- Complete with all accessories; and a 240V mains power unit fitted with double insulation and thermal cut-out for overload protection;
- It is supplied with a star dome for the northern hemisphere.
- This orrery is suitable from Key Stage 2 to University levels of education.
The model enables the study of the following topics:
- The Planets in their orbits (length of a year; inferior and superior planets)
- The phases of Venus
- The Moon and its phases (external light source required)
- Eclipse basics
- Time - solar; sidereal and G.M.T.
- The ecliptic and the Zodiacal constellations
- How the planets appear to move against the night sky
- Use of the Helios outside at night - where should the stars appear in the sky?
With the large Earth and Moon accessories that are included; you can also watch as the Earth rotates on its axis while the Moon orbits it every 29.5 'days'. Using an external light source (torch; projector); the larger size of Earth and Moon enables you to demonstrate the following events much more clearly:
- Day and night
- Shadows and the seasons
- The Moon's month; phases and eclipses
- The Pole Star; circumpolar stars and a nocturnal
- The Moon and stars from different positions on Earth
- The tides
- Space travel