When I began research for this week’s topic, my first quest was learning the difference between an asteroid and a comet. Here’s what I discovered. Comets (dirty snowballs) are primarily composed of ice and dust. As they near the sun, …[Continue]
Space Mysteries
In honor of Space Day 2000 (May 4), today’s topic explores the mysteries of space. In addition to today’s site explorations, children eight through twelve are invited to join John Glenn, Sally Ride and other space visionaries at the live …[Continue]
Lunar Eclipse
On the evening of Thursday, January 20, 2000, a total eclipse of the Moon will be visible from all of North and South America. West coast families are especially lucky because the totality occurs early enough in the evening for …[Continue]
Space for Kids
Outer space holds a fascination for kids of all ages, and today’s site picks include material for early elementary ages, as well as high schoolers (and beyond.) Before we start, here’s bonus tip: NASA hosts a multitude of online chats …[Continue]
Solar Eclipse
On August 11, 1999, a total solar eclipse will cut a path across Europe and Asia. Thanks to the miracle of the Internet, the rest of us can enjoy it via live Webcast. Tune into the following sites for more …[Continue]
Apollo 11
I remember that summer night over thirty years ago when Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin walked on the moon. I tell my kids this story, and I know that for them, it is a story from another lifetime. They are …[Continue]
Satellites
A satellite is any object that orbits or revolves around another. In addition to the Moon (a natural satellite), thousands of man-made satellites (used for communication, weather forecasting, research and surveillance) also orbit the Earth. How do they work? How …[Continue]
Mars Fun & Games
You’ve visited the NASA Pathfinder site, you’ve seen all the latest photos from the Sojourner rover. Now you’re ready for some fun. Inspired by the recent Pathfinder landing, I searched the Internet for some Mars fun (come make an alien) …[Continue]
Rocketry
Dreams of rocket flights to distant worlds fire the imagination of both children and adults. A rocket in its simplest form is a container filled with gas under pressure. A small opening at one end allows the gas to escape, …[Continue]
Life on Mars?
This month’s exciting headlines about the discovery of a primitive life form from Mars create the perfect opportunity to explore the Internet for late breaking news and background information. Launch your Martian adventure with these outstanding sites….[Continue]
