Our space - Part 2 Explanation of some terms - Lesson for small kids

Yesterday we started with some general information on space.

Today we will have a look at some explanation of different terms which we use if we are learning about space, before we look at different topics and aspects of space.

• Asteroid - these are small bodies that are made of metal and rock that moves around the Sun

Asteroid Belt: The asteroid belt lies roughly between the orbits of Mars and Jupiter in the Solar System. It is home to a large amount of irregular shaped asteroids that range in size from dust through to the dwarf planet Ceres.  

• Astronaut - this is the name given to the people who goes up into outer space to explore the Milky way or the Moon.  They undergo very specific training in order to be part of the space crew.
• Dwarf planet - a body that orbits the Sun and has gravitation but is too small to be called a planet.  Pluto is a dwarf planet.
• Earth - this is our home, the 3rd planet from the Sun and the only planet where life for humans are possible - another reason why we need to be very careful of how we treat this planet.
• Galaxy - this a large area that contains stars, dust and dark matter and is held together by gravity.  They differ in size and some galaxies contains millions of starts and others trillions.

 They can also form in different shapes such as elliptical galaxies. 

• Jupiter - this is the largest planet in our solar system and has a red spot and a lot of moons that orbits the planet.
• Mars - this is the fourth planet from the Sun and is known as the 'red planet'.
• Meteor - this is a meteorite that burns up once it enters the atmosphere of Earth .  If you see a 'shooting star', it is actually a meteor that you see.

• Milky way - this is the galaxy where we live and we also find the Sun and Moon and other planets here.

Moon - The Moon is a natural satellite which orbits the Earth. It is around a quarter the size of Earth and can be easily seen in the night sky. While other planets in the Solar System have ‘moons’, they are usually referred to by name, such as Jupiter’s Ganymede, or as natural satellites. 

• Neptune - another one of the planets - furthest away from the Sun and has very violent storms.
• Star - it is a ball of gas that is burning and gravity holds it together.  The Sun is also a star and it is the closest star to Earth, that is why it looks so much bigger than the stars at night.
• Sun - this is the most important part of our solar system - without the sun there will be no life - the Sun is a burning ball of gas and all the planets orbits around the Sun.

Can you find out what is the meaning of the following words and give one fact for each?

1. Universe
2. Uranus
3. Venus
4. Pluto
5. Halley's Comet

For crafts and fun you can build your own Solar system.

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