fill out data table 1.

using the internet or printed sources, find the average distance each planet is from the sun; record these values in data table 1 in kilometers.

convert from kilometers to centimeters to determine the scale distance from the sun. use the scale 25,000,000km = 1cm.

round each answer to the nearest tenths.

data table 1

planet

average distance from sun (km)

scale distance from sun (cm)

mercury

venus

earth

mars

jupiter

saturn

uranus

neptune

tape the 7 pieces of paper end to end (to create one very long piece of paper), and lay the paper out on a flat surface.

beginning with the first sheet of paper (on the left), draw an “x” 2 cm from the end of the first page and label the x “sun.” all of the distances will be measured from this x.

use the meter stick (or metric ruler) to measure, mark, and label the distance of each planet from the sun.

answer the reflection questions below.

based on your model, which planet is closest to earth?

based on your model, which planet is farthest from earth?

why do you think most models show the scale sizes of the planets but do not show the scale distances between the planets?

did your perception of how far apart the planets are change? explain.

what stood out to you as you were making your scale model?

extension activity

if you would like to see a model that shows both the planet distances and sizes to scale, scroll through the “if the moon were only 1 pixel” model or watch this video which shows the scale model a group of friends created in a dry, nevada lakebed.