Download Planet Porfolio - Complete Project

Space – the final frontier
Portfolio project for Atmosphere and Space Fall 2014
These are the voyages of the star ship MHS-High. Your mission; to explore new worlds and new civilizations. To boldly
go where you have never gone before!
This project has many options, how many you do is completely your choice. All assignments will be turned in together,
in a folder or notebook. We will have reference books and computers available in the classroom for your use, and we
will be using in-class time for much of the research. However, to obtain the highest score (and extra credit points) you
will need to use some of your own time to complete the project.
General Guidelines
All work that you turn in should be your own, this is not a team project. All written work is also your own, plagiarism
(such as copying and pasting from websites) will result in a zero for the project.
For each choice you need to include a bibliography. If you use only web based sources then you need a minimum of two
websites. Pictures also need to include a bibliography, remember, a Google location does not count. You need the
source website.
Written assignments must be double-spaced with a 12 point font. If you are not clear how to go about writing a good
essay, check out this website http://lklivingston.tripod.com/essay/ for some great tips on organizing your information.
There is no length requirement, as long as you address the question and feel that you have adequately answered it
(remember, I am the final judge – you are not guaranteed full points).
Presentations: A PowerPoint presentation must consist of at least 20 slides, with a title slide and a bibliography slide.
We will have presentations to the class the last few days of the project.
Posters must include clearly laid out text with title and appropriate headings, pictures and a bibliography.
Artistic renderings can be made on any size paper, but the image must be at least 8 x 8 inches and the paper cannot be
lined.
Note: if you do only the home base project, and 1 ‘data survey’ for each of the planets your score will be 210 points, just
above a D (assuming each part of the assignment receives full credit). Keep track of your completed assignments and
their score so that you know exactly what your maximum grade could be (I still grade them all and you might not get full
credit if you didn’t follow the guidelines).
You may earn up to 50 points in extra credit by completing additional assignments. However, this will only apply if you
have turned in the assignment by the due date. Late work will have points deducted 10% for each day.
Space – the final frontier
Portfolio project for Atmosphere and Space Fall 2014
Home Base
The voyage begins with a tour of the solar system. Choose one of the options below (worth up to 30 points).
Option 1:
You are an engineer involved in a bold new mission to explore the solar system. After you finished college
you found a job working with NASA and now have the opportunity to help design and man a new space craft.
Design your ship for the voyage. Be sure to include enough quarters to house a crew of 20. You will be graded on
artistic rendering as well as practicality of the ship. Discuss where and how it will be launched. Reference your design to
other ships (space or otherwise) that have been made.
Option 2:
The new space travel program is in full swing and you are a space travel agent. As such it is your
responsibility to present as much information as possible to your clients while they are on their voyage. The first thing
that any good travel agent does is their homework:
Report on the history of space exploration (this may be written, a PowerPoint presentation or a poster). Be sure to
include the first flights into space and the first manned flights. Your clients will like to hear funny stories as well, so
watch for tid-bits that will be entertaining.
Option 3:
What an amazing opportunity has presented itself to you as an aspiring author. Science fiction has always
been your genre and you are an authority on the writings of others, but now you have the chance to live what you have
written. The new space program has invited you to join them on an amazing voyage into our solar system.
Choose a science fiction author (to be approved by the editor) and report on one of their novels. In your writings be
sure to point out inaccuracies (or accuracies) in the author’s methodology.
Option 4:
Stowaway! You have skipped school for the day and found your way into a large transport vessel that was
located near the high school. The transport is moving and you cannot get out. In looking around with your handy little
flash light you see that it is loaded with books on the space station and living in space. With nothing else to do you pick
up the books and begin to read. Create a PowerPoint presentation, poster, or written report on the international space
station, skylab, mir and Salyut.
Option 5:
History Buff. You live to watch the history channel, but you’ve noticed that they don’t have much about
the history of space exploration. In an effort to overcome this shortcoming you begin research on your favorite subject:
space travel. Prepare and PowerPoint presentation, poster or written paper on the history of man in space.
Option 6:
Fashionista. Why do space suits look like, well, space suits? You are fashion conscious and wonder why
there isn’t a better looking suit to travel into space. Begin this project with a history of space suits, why they have the
features that they do. What are they made of? What did the first ones look like? How would you redesign the suits
(keep in mind they still need certain features!).
Option 7:
Do you have another idea? Write a brief description and present your idea to me for approval.
Space – the final frontier
Portfolio project for Atmosphere and Space Fall 2014
First Stop – The Moon
Now begin your amazing voyage.
Options
Complete a data survey of the moon
Draw a map of the moon, be sure to include and label craters and historic landmarks
Draw a diagram of the phases of the moon.
History and Geology of the moon. Describe the theories as to the moon’s creation and the
geological structure.
Design a new lunar vehicle to travel over the moon’s surface. In your designs you are to explain the
benefit of certain features, and be sure to keep safety into account (how will you drive something
without floating into space?)
Plan a tour of the famous craters, including the history of the craters and events that occurred
there. Include a labeled map.
There are many tales and myths about the moon, write a paper or prepare a presentation or poster
covering common myths.
Musical? The moon has been a central theme in many musical pieces. Create a medley of these
songs that can be shared with the class. Include a list of the music, composer/artist and year. Must
include at least 10 different pieces.
Point Value
20
15
15
20
20
20
20
30
For each choice you need to include a bibliography. If you use only web based sources then you need a minimum of two
websites.
A good place to start might be the following website:
http://www.moon.nasa.gov/home.cfm
Space – the final frontier
Portfolio project for Atmosphere and Space Fall 2014
Moon Data Survey
Name _______________________
1. What is the diameter of the moon and how does that relate to the size of the Earth?
___________________ km or ____________ of the Earths ____________________km .
2. How does the Moon’s mass relate to the density of water? _______________
3. How does it relate to the density of Earth?_______________________
4. How much would a 150 pound person weigh on the Moon? ________________
5. Galileo identified two different types of terrain on the Moon. Because the dark regions resembled seas on Earth
they were later named __________________ They are actually impact basins that were filled with _________
between 4.2 and 1.2 billion years ago.
6. . The light areas on the moon are known as ______________________________.
7. The leading theory of the moon’s origin involves a collision between a large body and Earth. Describe or draw a
diagram illustrating this theory.
8. How does the atmosphere on Earth and that on the moon play a role in the impacts by asteroids, meteoroids
and comets?
9. What is mega-regolith?
Space – the final frontier
Portfolio project for Atmosphere and Space Fall 2014
10. The first missions to the moon involved unmanned spacecraft. The first visits were by the U.S.S.R in 1959.
Describe these missions.
11. The U.S. sent many spacecraft to the moon in preparation for human exploration. Provide information on one
of those mission (include name, years and what they found):
12. When did the first human step foot on the moon and what was his name?
13. What was the name of the vehicle that American astronauts used to drive on the moon?
14. More recent missions by the U.S. were Clementine and Lunar Prospector. What was the conclusion following
these missions?
15. The U.S. isn’t the only country to be sending missions to the moon. Since 2003 many countries have sent
spacecraft. Name the mission and the country. Briefly describe what they were researching.
16. Other moons in the galaxy have specific names, but ours is just known as the moon. Why?
Space – the final frontier
Portfolio project for Atmosphere and Space Fall 2014
Mercury
Options
Complete a data survey on the planet Mercury
Draw a map of the planet using images taken by MESSENGER
Describe the MESSENGER mission, and make a model of the satellite.
Satellite images show volcanic activity on Mercury; Describe what scientists see in this data and
what they think it means about the shape and composition of the planet’s surface. (how do the
volcanoes on Mercury compare with those on Earth?)
More and more images of Mercury are being taken, both by satellites and by ground telescopes.
Prepare a PowerPoint presentation showing and explaining some of these images and the
significance of their subject matter (example: images of the Degas Ray Crater). You should include
background information on the source of the images as well as the images.
Plan a tour of Mercury, describing the atmosphere, temperature, rotation and previously known
visits to the planet (by our satellites). Remember to include interesting tid-bits, like who it is named
after and why.
Our government is looking to establish a colony on Mercury. Design a station to be built on
Mercury, where on the planet it would be located and what features it would have to make it
possible to support human life forms.
Point Value
20
15
15
20
20
20
20
For each choice you need to include a bibliography. If you use only web based sources then you need a minimum of two
websites.
A good place to start might be the following website:
Http://solarsystem.nasa.gov/planets/
Space – the final frontier
Portfolio project for Atmosphere and Space Fall 2014
Mercury Data Survey
1. What is the symbol that represents Mercury? ____________
2. What is the mean distance from the sun:
a. In AU _____
b. Millions of Kilometers ____________
3. What is Mercury’s orbital period? _________
4. What is the surface area of Mercury? __________________
5. What are the principal gases in its atmosphere? _________________________________________________.
6. How many known satellites does Mercury have? _________________
7. Mercury fits into the ___________________ group of planet. As such its core is made up of
_________________________________________.
8. Size wise, how does Mercury compare to the size of Earth’s moon? ________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________
9. What is the range of temperatures on Mercury? _______________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________
10. If you weighed 100 pounds on Earth, how much would you weigh on Mercury? _______________________
11. What is the sidereal rotation period (length of day) on Mercury?___________________________________
12. The Mariner 10 was NASA’s first spacecraft to study Mercury. What technique did this spacecraft use to reach
the planet? ______________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
13. What was the goal of the Mariner 10 mission? ___________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
14. How many times did the Mariner spacecraft actually pass Mercury? _________________________
15. Mercury has a very strange, some might even say eccentric, orbit. It can be as close as _____________________
____________________________ to the sun or as far as _______________________________________.
Space – the final frontier
Portfolio project for Atmosphere and Space Fall 2014
16. The magnetic field on Mercury is very weak compared to that of Earth – it is only ________________ the
strength.
17. Though weak, the magnetic field interacts with that of solar wind to create intense ___________________
_________________________________________ .
18. Mercury has been hit by many meteoroids and comets during its history. The largest impact basins include
_________________________________ and ____________________________________ and were created by
asteroid impacts.
19. In addition to craters, there are smooth areas which are _____________________________ or
______________. These can be hundreds of miles long and soar up to ____________________ high. These
formed as the planets interior cooled and contracted over the billions of years since Mercury formed.
Space – the final frontier
Portfolio project for Atmosphere and Space Fall 2014
Venus
Options
Complete a data survey on the planet Venus
There are many images taken of the planet Venus, referencing source materials draw a map of the
planet.
Many space craft have ‘visited’ Venus, provide a history of these visits and their significant findings.
On June 8, 2004, a unique event occurred with the planet Venus, Earth and the Sun. Describe what
happened and report on similar events recorded in history as well as when it will happen again.
Venus is the only planet in the solar system with a female name. Write a fictional tale about the
naming of the planet, refer to history pertaining to its observations and incorporate them into your
tale.
Plan a tour of Venus, describing the atmosphere, temperature, rotation and previously known visits
to the planet (by our satellites). Remember to include interesting tid-bits, like who it is named after
and why.
Venus is often called Earth’s twin sister. There are many similarities between the two, and some
significant differences. Write a report on the similarities and differences and propose a theory on
the evolution of the planet. (if you present someone else’s theory be sure to include proper
references).
The planet Venus is one of the most documented of the objects in space. Prepare a PowerPoint
presentation on these reports tracing back to the Babylonians.
Volcanoes are common on the Venusian surface, and are also found elsewhere in the solar system.
Create a presentation/poster/or report on the types of volcanoes found in the solar system and how
they contribute to the shape of a planet or planetary object.
Point Value
20
15
15
20
20
20
25
20
20
For each choice you need to include a bibliography. If you use only web based sources then you need a minimum of two
websites.
A good place to start might be the following website:
http://solarsystem.nasa.gov/planets
Space – the final frontier
Portfolio project for Atmosphere and Space Fall 2014
Venus Data Survey
1. What is the symbol that represents Venus? _________
2. What is the mean distance from the sun:
a. In AU _____
b. Millions of Miles ____________
3. What is Venus’ period of revolution? _________
4. What is the length of its rotational period? __________________
5. Orbital Velocity ______________ km/s.
6. What is the relative mass (when Earth = 1) __________ .
7. How many known satellites does Venus have? _________________
8. Does Venus have rings? ______________________
9. Venus fits into the ___________________ group of planets and is also known as a/n ___________ planet.
10. Describe retrograde rotation: ______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________
11. Venus is named after _____________________________________________________________________
12. Compare and contrast the orbit of Venus to that of Earth. ________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________
13. Whys is Venus considered a twin planet to Earth? ______________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
14. Question – can light reach the surface of Venus? ______ Why or why not?
______________________________________________________________________________________
Space – the final frontier
Portfolio project for Atmosphere and Space Fall 2014
15. How did the unmanned spacecraft Magellan examine the surface of Venus?
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
16. What is a transit of Venus? _______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
17. What are the temperatures like on the surface of Venus? ________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________
18. The European Venus Express Orbiter, in 2007, confirmed that the atmospheric lightning bursts recorded on the
planet was not associated with water clouds, but with __________________________________________
19. Why aren’t there small craters (less than 2 km) on the surface of Venus? ____________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________
20. What is the material (element) found at Venus’ core? ___________________________.
21. The Venusian atmosphere has a pressure which is _______ times that of Earth’s surface.
22. How did Venus get its name?
________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
Space – the final frontier
Portfolio project for Atmosphere and Space Fall 2014
Earth
Options
Complete a data survey of the planet Earth
In 2003 NASA developed what they call the Earth system science. This divides the Earth up into
Spheres. Provide a description of each of the spheres and how they interact to create a unique
planet in the solar system.
There are many ‘cycles’ on Earth. Prepare a poster or written report about the cycles (rock, water,
nitrogen, biogeochemical, carbon and nitrogen)
There have been shows and movies about aliens that come to visit the planet Earth. Now it is your
chance. You are an alien that has spent time on Earth. Write a letter home to your family about
your experiences.
Global Climate Change – is it real or isn’t it? There is a lot of information out there. Surf the web
and see what you can find. Report on the findings from at least 4 websites, comparing what they
state and how it all compares. End with your own personal opinion on the matter.
There are many Earth Gods from many different cultures (Egyptian, Greek, Chinese, Inca, Maya
etc.), create a PowerPoint presentation, report or poster on at least 4 different Gods
(http://www.windows.ucar.edu/tour/link=/mythology/planets/Earth/earth.html is a good place to
get information)
Create a Geological Time Line – using provided images of significant events in the history of the
Earth (must be appropriately labeled for each time point including millions of years ago, Period and
Era)
Point Value
20
15
15
20
20
20
35
For each choice you need to include a bibliography. If you use only web based sources then you need a minimum of two
websites.
Space – the final frontier
Portfolio project for Atmosphere and Space Fall 2014
Earth Data Survey
1. What is the symbol that represents Earth? _________
2. What is the mean distance from the sun:
a. In AU _____
b. Millions of Miles ____________
3. What is Earth’s period of revolution? _________
4. Inclination of Orbit? __________________
5. Orbital Velocity ______________ km/s.
6. What is the relative mass (when Earth = 1) __________ .
7. How many known satellites does Earth have? _________________
8. Does it have rings? _________________________
9. Earth fits into the ___________________ group of planets and is also known as a/n ___________ planet.
10. How many planets are between Earth and the Sun? _________
11. What is the role of the atmosphere when it comes to meteoroids? ________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________
12. What season is it in the northern hemisphere when the southern hemisphere is tilted away from the sun?
______________________________
13. Both hemispheres receive roughly equal amounts of solar radiation. Why? ___________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________
Space – the final frontier
Portfolio project for Atmosphere and Space Fall 2014
14. Describe the role of solar wind in the formation of the aurorae ____________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________
15. Earth’s lithosphere is divided into huge plates that are constantly moving. What geological occurrence is related
to the movement? ______________________________
16. How did Earth get its name? _________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
17. The core (center) and structure from the Earth is different from that of Mercury. Draw a diagram showing these
differences.
Space – the final frontier
Portfolio project for Atmosphere and Space Fall 2014
Mars
Options
Complete a data survey of the planet Mars
There are many images taken of the planet Mars, referencing source materials draw a map of the
planet be sure to include it’s moons.
Many space craft have ‘visited’ Mars including some that landed on the surface, provide a history of
these visits and their significant findings.
There has been an email circulating for many years announcing that Mars will be closest to the Earth
on a particular night and that you shouldn’t miss it. The actual date for this occurrence was August
25, 2003 (though it seems to be sent out every year). Write a newspaper article on the real facts
associated with this occurrence, when it might happen again, and warning people against believing
everything that is sent to them.
There have been some absolutely terrible movies (and some not so bad) based on Mars. Choose
one, watch it, and research the movie’s depiction of the planet Mars. What do you think was going
on during current history when they made the movie (note the date of many of them movies was
well before the first man went into space).
Plan a tour of Mars, be sure to include information on the atmosphere, temperature, rotation and
previously known visits to the planet (by our satellites). Remember to include interesting tid-bits,
like who it is named after and why.
Soil samples analyzed after the Phoenix Lander mission shows similarities between the soil of Mars
and that of Earth. What would be required for us to tap into Mars as a farming planet? Here is a
chance to get a little sci-fi and use your imagination.
Point Value
20
15
15
20
20
20
20
For each choice you need to include a bibliography. If you use only web based sources then you need a minimum of two
websites.
A good place to start might be the following website:
http://solarsystem.nasa.gov/planets
Space – the final frontier
Portfolio project for Atmosphere and Space Fall 2014
Mars Worksheet
1. What is the symbol that represents Mars? _________
2. What is the mean distance from the sun:
a. In AU _____
b. Millions of Miles ____________
3. What is Mars’ period of revolution? _________
4. Inclination of Orbit? __________________
5. Orbital Velocity ______________ km/s.
6. What is the relative mass (when Earth = 1) __________ .
7. How many known satellites does Mars have? _________________
8. Mars fits into the ___________________ group of planets and is also known as a/n ___________ planet.
9. What is the nickname for the planet Mars? ______________________________ ..
10. What is the gravity on Mars compared to Earth? __________________________________________________
11. How does the density of Mars compare to Earth? _________________________________________________.
12. The Martian atmosphere is primarily _________________________ with a small amount of _______________
_____________________________.
13. If you weighed 100 lbs on Earth, how much would you weigh on Mars? _______________________________
14. How cold can it get on Mars? __________________________. How hot? _______________
15. The Viking Lander recorded wind speeds up to _______________ mph.
16. There is a large difference between the atmospheric pressure on Mars compared to that of Earth. The Martian
atmosphere is ________ that of air pressure on Earth.
17. What year was the Mariner 9 mission launched to Mars? _______________________
Space – the final frontier
Portfolio project for Atmosphere and Space Fall 2014
18. Mariner 9 included an infrared radiometer. What did it measure? _____________________________
19. Mars has two satellites. What year were they discovered and what are the names? _______________
________________________________________________
20. Describe the Tharsis region (also known as the Tharsis bulge). _________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
21. NASA’s Mars rover Curiosity discovered water on Mars. However, the water is locked up _____________
______________________________________________________________________________________
22. Mars has two small satellites that were discovered in ___________. They are _________ and __________ and
are only ________ and _________ kilometers in diameter.
23. What is interesting is the similarity in the moons to two fictional satellites of Mars described by Jonathan Swift in
his book __________________________________________________ .
Space – the final frontier
Portfolio project for Atmosphere and Space Fall 2014
Jupiter
Options
Complete a data survey on the planet Jupiter
Draw a map or create a model of Jupiter and it’s moons (to scale)
Scientists have just discovered a colony of creatures living on Jupiter. Describe the animals, what
type of environment they live in, how they survive (what they eat, breath, how they survive) and
what impact it might have on man’s future colonization of the planet.
Describe the JUNO mission, describing the instrumentation and what the scientists hope to
accomplish.
Jupiter has had images taken by several satellites. Describe the missions and show some examples
of the data obtained.
Like Earth, Jupiter has auroral emissions. Describe what they are and how they are formed, be sure
to include information on the atmosphere’s composition.
Plan a tour of Jupiter, be sure to include a description of the atmosphere, temperature, rotation,
magnetosphere, number of satellites, and the mythological background of its name. Include fun
facts, like how much a person might weigh on Jupiter versus on Earth.
Point Value
20
15
15
15
20
20
20
20
For each choice you need to include a bibliography. If you use only web based sources then you need a minimum of two
websites.
Space – the final frontier
Portfolio project for Atmosphere and Space Fall 2014
Jupiter Worksheet
1. What is the symbol that represents Jupiter? _________
2. What is the mean distance from the sun:
a. In AU _____
b. Millions of Miles ____________
3. What is Jupiter’s period of revolution? _________
4. Inclination of Orbit? __________________
5. Orbital Velocity ______________ km/s.
6. What is the relative mass (when Earth = 1) __________ .
7. How many known satellites does Jupiter have? _________________
8. Does Jupiter have rings? ___________________________________________________________________
9. Jupiter fits into the ___________________ group of planets and is also known as a/n ___________ planet.
10. What nickname is Jupiter known by? _________________________________________________________ ..
11. The mass of Jupiter is ______________ times greater than the combined mass of all the remaining planets,
satellites, and asteroids.
12. How large is Jupiter’s inner, solid core? _____________________________________________________ .
13. Despite its size, Jupiter rotates more rapidly than any other planet, completing one rotation is slightly less than
________ Earth hours
14. Jupiter’s atmosphere is made up of ___________________________________________________________
15. The most striking figure, when looking at Jupiter, is the Great Red Spot located in the southern hemisphere.
When was this first discovered? ___________________________
16. The Great Red Spot is an anti-cyclonic storm – similar to a ___________________________ on Earth.
Space – the final frontier
Portfolio project for Atmosphere and Space Fall 2014
17. This huge storm rotates once every __________ Earth days.
18. According to Science Daily.com, the massive winds on Jupiter are likely generated where? ________________
__________________________________________________.
19. Jupiter resembles a star in composition. Why isn’t it one? ________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________
20. Jupiter has a series of colorful cloud bands and spots. What is the composition of the clouds?
_________________________________________________________________________________________
21. The largest ocean in the solar system is found on Jupiter – but it doesn’t contain water. Instead it is made up of
__________________________________________________________________________________________
22. Galileo found the largest of Jupiter’s moons. The two largest are _____________________ and
__________________ ..
23. The two smaller Galilean moons, ____________________ and ______________________ are closer to the size
of Earth’s moon.
24. How did Jupiter get its name? __________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________________
25. Which of Jupiter’s moons has volcanic activity? ____________________________________________________
Space – the final frontier
Portfolio project for Atmosphere and Space Fall 2014
Saturn
Options
Complete a data survey on the planet Saturn
There are many images taken of the planet Saturn, referencing source materials draw a map of the
planet, its moons and rings.
Many space craft have ‘visited’ Saturn, provide a history of these visits and their significant findings.
The Cassini Equinox mission has provided scientists with some amazing images of Saturn, Saturn’s
rings and some of Saturn’s moons. Create a PowerPoint presentation showing and explaining some
of these exciting images.
While Saturn is one of the Jovian planets, its largest moon, Titan, is more Earth-like. Describe the
features of Titan and why scientists are so interested in this moon.
DC comics feature Saturn as the home to the lairs of the Red and White Saturnians. Make your own
comic using Saturn and characters of your own making (must be a complete story and take at least 5
pages of images.)
Tim Burton’s movie Beetlejuice had scenes that were supposed to be on Saturn. Research how
Saturn has been portrayed in at least 3 movies, discus what is right or wrong about the
interpretation of the planet.
Creating a colony on the surface of Saturn would be impossible, but science fiction stories often
feature ‘cloud cities’. Design your own cloud city for Saturn, be sure to show where it is on the
planet and how it relates to the rings and planets.
Point Value
20
15
15
20
20
20
20
20
For each choice you need to include a bibliography. If you use only web based sources then you need a minimum of two
websites.
A good place to start might be the following website:
http://solarsystem.nasa.gov/planets
Space – the final frontier
Portfolio project for Atmosphere and Space Fall 2014
Saturn Worksheet
1. What is the symbol that represents Saturn? _________
2. What is the mean distance from the sun:
a. In AU _____
b. Millions of Miles ____________
3. What is Saturn’s period of revolution? _________
4. Inclination of Orbit? __________________
5. Orbital Velocity ______________ km/s.
6. What is the relative mass (when Earth = 1) __________ .
7. How many known satellites does Saturn have? _________________. Is that all? Why/why not? _________
________________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________
8. Does Saturn have rings? _______________
9. Saturn fits into the ___________________ group of planets and is also known as a/n ___________ planet.
10. Saturn is sometimes called the ________ __________ ..
11. The atmosphere on Saturn is made up of ____________________ and ________________.
12. How many space missions have been sent to Saturn? ______________
13. While Saturn itself cannot support life as we know it, what about its moons? Explain. _______________
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
14. What did Galileo Galilei draw when he saw Saturn through his telescope in the 1600’s? ______________
______________________________________________________________________________________
Space – the final frontier
Portfolio project for Atmosphere and Space Fall 2014
15. A Dutch astronomer, _______________ _____________ proposed that Saturn’s ring was thin and flat.
16. What is the Cassini Division? ______________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________
17. Winds on Saturn can reach ____________________ meters per second. These winds, along with the heat from
the interior of the planet, create the _______________ and ________________ bands that you see through a
telescope (visible in the atmosphere).
18. Thanks to Nasa missions, scientists have determined the following:.
a. The composition of Saturn’s rings: _______________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
b. Saturn’s rings extend __________________________________________________-from the planet.
19. Saturn has _______ named moons, that largest of which is called ____________ and is bigger than Mercury.
20. It is one of only two satellites in our solar system known to have a substantial ________________ .
21. Another of Saturn’s moons, Phoebe, exhibits ______________ motion. Scientists believe this occurs when an
______________ or large planetesimal is captured by the planets gravity.
22. The origin of planetary rings is still unknown. Several theories can be found in books and online. Present one
and why you believe that it is the true origin. ____________________________________________________
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Space – the final frontier
Portfolio project for Atmosphere and Space Fall 2014
Uranus
Options
Complete a data survey on the planet Uranus
Voyager 2 took some great images of the planet Uranus and some of its many moons. Draw a
picture that represents Uranus, its moons and be sure to draw the rings as accurately as possible.
This planet has a strange tilt to its axis. Write a story about how the tilt came to be, you may base
your story on an existing theory or create your own version (can be factual or total fiction).
Uranus has an interesting astronomical past. Discus the history of Uranus, who discovered it and
how it has been identified and named since being sighted in 1690.
There are different theories as to how the planets arose, specifically the gas giants and the ice
giants. See what you can find out about these conflicting ideas.
Uranus has 27 known moons. Give a brief description and discuss how they were named.
Point Value
20
15
15
20
20
20
For each choice you need to include a bibliography. If you use only web based sources then you need a minimum of two
websites.
A good place to start might be the following website:
http://solarsystem.nasa.gov/planets
Space – the final frontier
Portfolio project for Atmosphere and Space Fall 2014
Uranus Worksheet
1. What is the symbol that represents Uranus? _________
2. What is the mean distance from the sun:
a. In AU _____
b. Millions of Miles ____________
3. What is Uranus’s period of revolution? _________
4. Inclination of Orbit? __________________
5. Orbital Velocity ______________ km/s.
6. What is the relative mass (when Earth = 1) __________ .
7. How many known satellites does Uranus have? _________________
8. Does Uranus have rings? ___________________________________
9. The atmosphere on Uranus is made up of _______________________ , ____________________ , and a little bit
of ___________________________________.
10. Uranus fits into the ___________________ group of planets and is also known as a/n ___________ planet.
11. Uranus is sometimes called the ________ __________ ..
12. The orbit of Uranus is unlike any others in the solar system. Its equator is at ______________________ to its
orbit. Draw this below
13. As a result of its unique tilt, the Sun is actually over the __________ rather than the equator of the planet.
Space – the final frontier
Portfolio project for Atmosphere and Space Fall 2014
14. What gas gives Uranus its blue tint? _____________________________
15. Uranus has at least _______ distinct belts of debris that orbit its ______________ region.
16. Draw a picture of Uranus and its belts of debris in relation to the Sun:
17. What year was Uranus discovered and by whom? _________________________________________________
18. The innermost of the five largest moons is named ______________ and has the greatest variety of
______________ than any celestial body in our solar system.
19. What are the moons are Uranus named after? ___________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________________
Space – the final frontier
Portfolio project for Atmosphere and Space Fall 2014
Neptune
Options
Complete a data survey on the planet Neptune
There are images taken of the planet Neptune, and much is known about its atmosphere and
structure. Prepare a labeled drawing showing the structure of the planet and layers in the
atmosphere.
The discovery of Neptune was attributed to the mathematical calculations of two different
astronomers, one French and one British. Do you think that credit should be shared? Research the
history involved with this controversy, and present your point of view.
Saturn, Jupiter, Neptune and Uranus all have rings. However, the structure of the rings are very
different. Compare and contrast the rings of the different planets.
We have reached the outer limits of our planets – write a rap/poem/mythological tale about your
voyage through our solar system.
At this point you may have drawings of every planet in the solar system, using them as reference
draw or create a model of our solar system.
Point Value
20
15
20
20
20
25
Pastry chef option: make a cake or other baked item celebrating your journey – it can be about your 25
favorite planet, the journey itself or any subject pertaining to our solar system. Bring it to the class
to share! Be prepared to explain how it pertains to the project.
For each choice you need to include a bibliography. If you use only web based sources then you need a minimum of two
websites.
A good place to start might be the following website:
http://solarsystem.nasa.gov/planets
Space – the final frontier
Portfolio project for Atmosphere and Space Fall 2014
Neptune Worksheet
1. What is the symbol that represents Neptune? _________
2. What is the mean distance from the sun:
a. In AU _____
b. Millions of Miles ____________
3. What is Neptune’s period of revolution? _________
4. Inclination of Orbit? __________________
5. Orbital Velocity ______________ km/s.
6. What is the relative mass (when Earth = 1) __________ .
7. How many known satellites does Neptune have? _________________
8. Neptune fits into the ___________________ group of planets and is also known as a/n ___________ planet.
9. Neptune is sometimes called the ________ __________ ..
10. Uranus and Neptune are very similar and are sometimes called _______ _________ . There is only _______
percent difference in diameter between the two and both appear _______________ due to the methane in their
atmospheres.
11. The Voyager 2 travelled nearly ____________________ miles over _______ years and helped scientists learn a
lot about Neptune.
12. Neptune’s atmosphere is a lot like those of ___________ and ____________ .
13. The winds on the planet can exceed __________________ kilometers per hour.
14. Scientists have named an Earth-sized rotating storm the __________ _________ _________.
15. About 50 kilometers above the main cloud deck there are __________ ________-_________ clouds that are
probably frozen ____________ .
16. Thanks to images taken by Voyager, we now know that Neptune has _________ moons. The six new satellites
actually orbit in a direction ______________ those of the two larger satellites.
Space – the final frontier
Portfolio project for Atmosphere and Space Fall 2014
17. Voyager’s images have also revealed a __________ __________ around Neptune.
18. Neptune’s largest moon is called __________ , and is unique among moons in that it exhibits
________________ motion. This implies that the moon was formed __________________ of Neptune and then
was _______________ captured.
19. In addition, Neptune’s largest moon also has the __________ surface temperature of any body in the solar
system with readings of __________ C (______ F).
20. Neptune’s moon also displays __________ - like activity.
21. Briefly describe what is happening on the moon’s surface:
Space – the final frontier
Portfolio project for Atmosphere and Space Fall 2014
Open Options
As the ship gets closer to the sun, your curiosity about this huge central entity of our solar system grows. Grabbing your
handy dandy laptop computer you delve into the world wide web (because the ship we are travelling in has amazing
wireless networking!) and complete one of the following.
Extra options, because some topics are too cool to forget.
Many cultures developed calendars or constructed their pueblos or villages based on the position of
the sun, this includes Pueblo Bonito and the Big Horn Medicine Wheel. And let us not forget
Stonehenge. Research how different cultures celebrated the position of the sun in the sky, and how
they constructed their ancient calendars that predicted the time of year.
Point Value
20
Many cultures viewed the sun as a mystical object. Research and write about some of the myths
and cultural observance with the sun at the center.
Solar Eclipses: make a diagram showing how a solar eclipse occurs. When was our last one? When
will be the next full eclipse?
As a source of energy. We are entering a time in Earth’s history when we need to reduce our
dependence upon fossil fuels. Research the history of solar arrays and solar panels, and write an
opinion piece on the use of solar energy and how it can help (or not help) the people of the United
States.
Black holes have always fascinated people. What exactly is a black hole? Why does it suck
everything into it? Put together a presentation (skit/rap/video clip) that explains black holes. You
can borrow an iPad in the classroom for this one!
The IAU has named a new category of dwarf planet, plutoid. Research the IAU and this new naming
category. Why had they decided on a new classification? What steps were involved and how long
did it take? Finally, what is your personal opinion on the matter?
New Horizons was launched on January 19, 2006 and is on its way to Pluto. On its voyage it has sent
back some amazing photographs. Document this interesting space craft and report on its findings
and what scientists hope to find out as it reaches the outer limits of our solar system.
15
15
20
20
20
For each choice you need to include a bibliography. If you use only web based sources then you need a minimum of two
websites.
Space – the final frontier
Portfolio project for Atmosphere and Space Fall 2014
Use the score sheet to keep track of your progress. For each planet you need to complete at least one assignment.
SECTION – what you completed
list those options that you completed for each planet
Opening project – Home Base (30 Points)
Moon
Mercury
Venus
Earth
Mars
Jupiter
Saturn
Uranus
Neptune
Open Options
Scoring:
A 268-300 Points
B 238-267 points
C 210-237 points
D 180-209 points
Can earn up to 30 extra credit points (if 1 option done per planet)
Points Earned
(do not write in this
column)