Starry-eyed about Constellations

 

Ever connect the dots? On a clear night you can see groups of stars in the sky.  People have connected the star “dots” to form constellations that represent images. Often these constellations are used to tell stories and share myths. Try these activities and see starry constellations in your eyes.

 

CONNECT:

• Learn about the types of constellations, their names, and how to find them at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1sZ15SUeS9w
• Want to know more about the myths and science of constellations? Watch this 2-part crash course: https://thekidshouldseethis.com/post/what-is-a-constellation-crash-course-kids
• Watch how different cultures view constellations at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HejyXGQN-wk

 

CREATE:

• Explore NASA’s activities about constellations at https://spaceplace.nasa.gov/search/constellations/
• Try some kid-friendly, hands-on constellation activities at https://www.howweelearn.com/constellation-activities-for-kids/
• Create a constellation telescope by following the directions at https://kidsactivitiesblog.com/53541/constellation-activity-craft/
• AND connect the stars anyway to want to make your own constellations!

 

CARE:

• Get the facts about night vision and eye health at https://www.aao.org/eye-health/anatomy/night-vision
• Connect the family closer by star – and constellation – gazing at https://www.pbs.org/seeinginthedark/for-families/
• Be inspired by https://www.lpi.usra.edu/education/space_days/activities/constellations/ to create a community space day for families.

 

CAREERS:

Do you get starry-eyed thinking about constellations? Do you see the stars in your future? If so, gaze at this constellation of astronomy careers.

• https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/astronomy-jobs
• https://aas.org/careers/career-in-astronomy
• https://www.iau.org/public/themes/careers/