Exploring the Universe: Our Solar System and Beyond
by Abigayle Frazier-Hansen
Students at Gates Elementary took a journey through space without ever leaving their school, thanks to the “Our Solar System and Beyond” project, funded by a GIPS Foundation Classroom Grant. This initiative brought the Edgerton Explorit Center’s portable planetarium to campus, giving first, third, and fifth graders an unforgettable, immersive experience with the solar system.
As part of their English Language Arts curriculum, students in first, third, and fifth grades study the solar system and the patterns in the sky. While reading about space is important, the planetarium allowed students to see and experience what they had been learning in a way that books and classroom discussions simply cannot replicate.
The planetarium experience transported students beyond the pages of their textbooks and into the vastness of space. Emily Bailey, third-grade teacher at Gates elementary, described the experience, saying, “the night sky came to life for us”. They watched as the planets moved through their orbits, explored constellations, and saw how the sky changes from different locations on Earth. The experience helped students grasp complex concepts, like why the sun and stars appear to move across the sky and how Earth's rotation affects day and night.
For many students, this was their first time inside a planetarium, and the excitement was evident. Describing the students’ enthusiasm, Emily said, “It was really cool for the kids. They were super excited the whole time.” The impact of the project reached beyond just the students. Teachers noted that their classes were more engaged in discussions and eager to ask questions about space. Concepts that had previously been difficult to visualize suddenly made sense, leading to deeper understanding and retention.
Bringing the Edgerton Explorit Center’s planetarium to Gates Elementary ensured that 148 students—across three grade levels—could experience the wonders of space firsthand. The “Our Solar System and Beyond” project not only enriched the curriculum but also sparked curiosity and a love for science that will stay with students long after they step out of the planetarium.
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