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Starstruck at the WonderDome Mobile Planetarium
On 16th September, Year 2 transformed into intrepid space explorers as they stepped into the ‘WonderDome,’ an immersive and informative journey across the Milky Way.
What deceptively looked like an inflatable dome in the middle of the sports hall had actually transported pupils to the far reaches of outer space, offering breathtaking 360-degree views of our stars and solar system. Guided by Mission Command Instructor Matt, Year 2 were given an interactive tour of the galaxy which will serve as an exciting introduction to their newest history topic: the History of Space Travel.
Tuesday’s intergalactic journey began at the sun, which Year 2 discovered was the blazing centre of our solar system. From there, pupils embarked on a whistle-stop tour of the planets, punctuated by lots of gasps of wonderment, and frequent question breaks.
Pupils explored how different planets vary in climate, from the boiling-hot Venus to the icy rings of Saturn, as well as the unique combination of pressure, atmosphere and surface that make the Earth the only habitable planet in the solar system. One pupil asked if any other planet was “as cold as Antarctica”- and as Matt shared the average temperature on Neptune, the room erupted into a chorus of very incredulous gasps!
Year 2 also confidently grappled with more advanced scientific concepts, such as supernovas, black holes and planetary orbits. Their enthusiasm was proved by the big questions they were asking: from the scientific, “Why is space black?” and “How the Sun was created?” to the more imaginative. One pupil wondered, “If I were to fly my rocket near a black hole, what would happen?”
The excitement of this intergalactic tour was palpable, and students were eager to share their favourite moments as they left the dome. One pupil said the planetarium was “super cool”, and that her favourite part was “seeing Mars” and all of its “bright colours.” Another was fascinated to discover just “how hot it can be” on other planets. In a different class, a pupil expressed his appreciation for “Saturn and Mars” and declared his intention to be the first person to ever visit Saturn’s rings. He was reminded that it is minus 139 degrees Celsius on Saturn, but has promised his teacher that he will bring a jacket!
The WonderDome mobile planetarium offered Year 2 an unforgettable launchpad into their upcoming History lessons. As Instructor Matt wrapped up with a glimpse of Artemis II, the new moon mission that is set to launch next April, Year 2 were left with this to wonder: could they be space’s next big pioneers? Was Earth’s next great astronaut sitting amongst them? Only time will tell. But for now, it is back to the classroom to continue learning and nurture these newfound ambitions!
