The University of Texas McDonald Observatory


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In this activity, learners explore the relative sizes and distances of objects in the solar system.

$1 - $5 per group Ages 8 - 18 30 to 45 minutes
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In this activity, learners use the Sun's energy to cook marshmallows. Learners construct the solar oven out of simple everyday materials.

$1 - $5 per group Ages 8 - 14 45 to 60 minutes
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In this activity, learners make an equatorial sundial, which is simple to construct and teaches fundamental astronomical concepts. Learners use the provided template and a straw to build the sundial.

1 cent - $1 per group Ages 11 - 18 2 to 4 hours
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In this two-part activity, learners explore the Earth and Sun's positions in relation to the constellations of the ecliptic with a small model.

1 cent - $1 per group Ages 4 - 18 1 to 2 hours
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In this activity, learners construct their own spectroscope as they explore and observe spectra from familiar light sources.

$5 - $10 per group Ages 14 - 18 45 to 60 minutes
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In this activity, learners set up an experiment to investigate the effects of hot air on the path of a laser beam.

$1 - $5 per group Ages 14 - 18 45 to 60 minutes
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In this activity, learners test the Law of Reflection based on experimental evidence. Learners produce raw data and explanations based on their data: pencil tracings of incident and reflection rays.

$1 - $5 per group Ages 14 - 18 45 to 60 minutes
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In this activity, learners will first learn the basics of galaxy classification and grouping.

free Ages 14 - 18 30 to 45 minutes
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In this activity, learners carry out a scientific investigation of dust in their classroom. Learners produce an analysis on graph paper of the dust they collect over the course of a few days.

$1 - $5 per group Ages 11 - 18 1 to 7 days
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In this activity, learners observe colors in the flame of a burning candle to explore connections between matter, light, color and temperature -- basic concepts of matter and energy.

$1 - $5 per group Ages 14 - 18 45 to 60 minutes