For most students, coming face to face with a planet or the asteroid belt is nothing but a dream out of reach. But thanks to the model solar system project that Astronomy students have been working on, that dream is now a reality.

“So we’re making a to-scale model of the solar system that we want to fit from the stairwell all the way down to the gym,” astronomy teacher Kyle Beggs said. “The model is going to be kind  of like a solar system walk for people so they can walk through the hallway in the school and learn some stuff about the solar system.”

Beggs aims to create a project that prepares students for the future, and also allows them to exercise their creative freedoms. 

“For the students, obviously there’s a little bit of content that they have to learn,” Beggs said. “They also have to build models as part of the coursework so it benefits them that way, but it also is going to benefit them by giving them those future ready skills, working with people that they may not always work with, working in large groups, maybe small groups and just being on a timetable that isn’t necessarily put forth by the teacher.”

For senior Ella Mack, the project has been a unique, challenging experience with lots of free reign.

“We had separate jobs and levels to our project, and it was given to us with very few instructions,” Mack said. “We elected the head of the project, researchers, loggers, and other roles. The biggest challenge we faced is some of the students wanting to participate less than others, but with this format we’re able to give them smaller jobs to help while still getting things done.”

The project has opened new doors for creativity and building-based-learning for senior Dylan Lovato.

“My favorite part is probably building the planets themselves, as it allows creativity to shine through,” Lovato said. “Being able to build everything from scratch enhances the learning experience, as you are more hands on with the content. [However], the time limitations impact construction and completion of the project.”

Additionally, the project serves as an educational and competitive game between students. 

“The three astronomy classes are competing to see who can make the best model,” Beggs said. “For the other students on campus, they learn facts and stuff about planets through a cool display.”