A Trip to Outer Space

This term, the Astronomy Club have been learning about the constellations of stars and the moon, and so to further their learning, they recently visited the Glasgow Science Centre.

The astronomical science experience started with a visit to the planetarium where pupils were able to gaze at the wonders of the universe without any of the usual Glasgow light pollution.

Seeking out Jupiter and Saturn, and learning more about their moons, pupils moved through the Milky Way to pinpoint their position in the galaxy. Learning about the Goldilocks Zone and how lucky our planet Earth is to be situated at just the right place in the universe to sustain life, was most interesting for the group.

Pupils then searched for habitable exoplanets and also learned how radio and infra-red telescopes can be used to study space, beyond the realm of the visible light that we see up in the sky.

The visit rounded off with a 3D movie screening all about exploration to the Moon, where pupils learned about the new Artemis space program where NASA will aim to land the first woman and the first person of colour on the Moon. Through innovative technologies to explore more of the lunar surface than ever before, NASA will collaborate with commercial and international partners to establish a long-term presence on the Moon.

It was a jam-packed and interesting trip, which will help the continuity of learning in Astronomy Club which meets every Wednesday lunchtime. All Secondary pupils are welcome, and if you’d like to join the next meeting, speak with Dr Kilgour or see the noticeboard outside B31 for more information.