Are you prepping to watch the solar eclipse or want to learn more about how it happens? To help explain this phenomenon, make a DIY solar eclipse model with kids. Grab a few materials and check out our additional solar eclipse STEM activities.
Solar Eclipse Activity for Kids
Creating a do-it-yourself (DIY) solar eclipse model is an engaging and educational activity that provides a hands-on way to understand the mechanics behind this awe-inspiring astronomical event. By crafting a miniature representation of the Earth, Moon, and Sun, complete with their relative positions and movements, one can visually demonstrate how a solar eclipse occurs.
Make a Solar Eclipse Model
Find printable instructions in our solar eclipse project pack below!
Materials Needed:
- Ping pong ball
- Marble
- Flashlight
- Straw
- Craft stick
- Hot glue
- Scissors
- Markers
Instructions:
STEP 1: Use markers to paint the ping pong ball to resemble the earth. You can also use paint!
STEP 2: Trim straws so the two balls are the same height and glue them to the craft stick, which is the base.
STEP 3: Now glue each ball on top of each stick.
STEP 4: Shine your flashlight from each side of your model to show a solar and a lunar eclipse.
What is the Solar Eclipse?
A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, blocking all or part of the Sun’s light. This celestial alignment causes a temporary shadow to fall on Earth, creating a dramatic dimming of daylight as the Moon obscures the Sun.
Different solar eclipses exist, including total, partial, and annular, depending on the alignment and distances between the Earth, Moon, and Sun. Total solar eclipses, where the Sun is completely covered by the Moon, are particularly captivating events, as they allow observers within the path of totality to witness the Sun’s corona and experience a brief period of darkness during the day.
More Solar Eclipse Activities
Printable Solar Eclipse Project Pack
Celebrate the solar eclipse with this fun information and project pack!
Learn about solar and lunar eclipses with an educational worksheet pack, make an eclipse model, and create a DIY pinhole camera! Additional projects include an eclipse art project and a paper fold-out project!
Includes printable instructions and helpful photo step images!
