Science 6 - Space Videos

This is a playlist that includes a short video on each of the planets as a nice way to introduce them. In addition to a video on the sun and the eight planets, there are a few videos that pertain to the outcomes within this unit regarding some other celestial bodies within our solar system. These are nice and short with key pieces of information; the only slight drawback is their use of Imperial units.

In the case that clicking on the image to right does not take you to the entire playlist, please use the URL below:

URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2HoTK_Gqi2Q&list=PLlA0egn4bgHKrZzSOeNXsamiAjh_bn7tm

In the "Planets and Moons" episode of Bill Nye the Science Guy, Bill explores the diverse worlds within our solar system. The video highlights key features and interesting facts about each planet and their moons, emphasizing their unique environments and geological characteristics. Bill uses engaging demonstrations and scientific explanations to illustrate concepts like gravity, orbit, and the conditions necessary for life. The episode aims to inspire curiosity and a deeper understanding of the solar system's complexity and beauty. It is worth noting that with this video recorded in the 1990s, Pluto is still classified as a planet (instead of its current status of a dwarf planet); you may want to discuss with your students the idea that resources in science can become outdated.

The "Solar System 101" video by National Geographic provides a comprehensive overview of our solar system. It starts by introducing the sun, the center of the solar system, and then details the characteristics and unique features of each planet orbiting around it. The video includes fascinating visuals and animations that help illustrate concepts like planetary orbits, atmospheres, and surface conditions. It also touches on the formation of the solar system and the potential for life beyond Earth. A great introductory video to start this unit, the only terminology in this video that is slightly above grade six is the classification of the gas giant planets as the "Jovian Planets;" that small detail aside, all information in this video is very well-suited for this age.

The "Sun 101" video by National Geographic provides a detailed exploration of the Sun, our closest star. It explains the Sun's composition, structure, and the critical role it plays in the solar system. The video also discusses various phenomena associated with the Sun, such as solar flares and sunspots, and their effects on Earth. Through captivating visuals and expert commentary, the video enhances understanding of this astronomical object that is vital to life on our planet.

Though only seven minutes long, this video can really be divided into two parts:

1. The first part of this video really looks at the incredible scale of just how big our solar system is, and shows a great illustration of the scale of our solar system using lit-up marbles and tracks created by a vehicle.

2. The second part of the video really delves into just how small the earth, and all of the human race is in comparison to just our solar system (leaving the scale of our solar system to our galaxy or the universe alone). Though much more philisophical, this second part might be worth showing as well.

Published by NASA, this "60 Second Science: Satellites" is a very brief and succinct video that is great for starting this section of the unit, as it really does touch on many of the key pieces of information: the definition of a satellite, natural versus artificial satellites, and some of the various functions that satellites are used for. 

The video titled "How Do Satellites Get & Stay in Orbit?" explains the fundamental physics behind the launch and orbital stability of satellites. It delves into the concepts of gravitational pull and velocity required for a satellite to enter and maintain a stable orbit around Earth. The video uses clear visuals and straightforward explanations to describe the balance of forces acting on satellites, ensuring they don't veer off into space or fall back to Earth. It colcudes by showing an illustration of how many artificial satellites are currently orbiting.

The video titled "Space is Full of Junk. Here’s How to Clean It Up…" discusses the growing issue of space debris orbiting Earth. It explores the potential risks posed by space junk, such as collisions with satellites and impacts on space missions. The video also highlights various innovative solutions and technologies being developed to track, manage, and remove debris from orbit. The focus is on ensuring the long-term sustainability of space activities by cleaning up the clutter that threatens future missions.

In the Bill Nye "Space Exploration" video, Bill delves into the history and technology of space travel. He explains the science behind how rockets escape Earth's gravity and the intricacies of living in space, including the challenges astronauts face. The video includes experiments and demonstrations that vividly bring these concepts to life. This episode not only educates but also inspires curiosity and excitement about the future of space exploration.

Though this may seem a rather long video for many students to remain engaged with history, "History of Space Exploration" begins right after WWII, and really looks at all the key steps taken in space exploration to reach the current status quo.