In Praise of God's Design: Our Amazing Solar System
Krystal Winn 
Exploring our Solar System is the perfect way to be reminded of the splendor of God's design!
God's Amazing Design
In a world where we are constantly influenced to live by our own strength and according to our own understanding, exploring God's creative design brings us back to the sheer grandeur of the God that we serve. The area of space science serves as a necessary and humbling reminder of how fragile we are as humans.
Check out this awesome printable Solar System Coloring and Activity Workbook here:
Earth's design, composition, and atmosphere alone are impressive systems. But when we take a look beyond the earth and observe our solar system, there are so many more awe-inspiring details to take in.
For instance:
1. Venus, though not closest to the sun, is the hottest planet in our solar system. This planet, with its thick atmosphere, can reach temperatures up to 875 degrees F.
2. Jupiter's Great Red Spot is actually a storm that's been raging for over 300 years.
3. Neptune is the only planet in our solar system not visible to the naked eye.
4. Uranus rotates on its "side", which is almost at a 90-degree angle from its plane or obit.
5. Mars is one of the easiest planets to spot in the night sky, appearing as a bright red light.
Why and How to Explore the Solar System as a Family
Exploring the solar system as a family offers countless benefits that go beyond just the excitement of space exploration. Consider the following:
1. Strengthening Family Bonds
When a family decides to learn together, it creates an opportunity for more meaningful interactions. And what a better topic to discover than space! Some examples include watching a meteor shower, identifying constellations, and visiting planetariums together.
2. Encouraging Lifelong Learning
New details about our solar system are being discovered constantly. Take time to keep up with space news (from reliable sources of course). Consider watching documentaries about space or attending space-related events
3. Developing Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills
There's no doubt about it, our solar system is complex. Taking time to help our children understand certain concepts will help train their brains to process more complex information in other areas. Consider working together to build a model of the solar system. Or research how aircraft is sent to space to collect data.
There are numerous ways to bring the joy of space science into your homeschool. May we continue to be in awe of God's amazing creation!
Want to dig deeper? Check out these fun and educational self-paced online courses!
Hands-On Astronomy: Black Holes and Galaxies
In this 4-lesson course, students will study some of the Universe's most fascinating objects: galaxies and black holes. (Ages 7-12) Only $7
Hands-On Astronomy: The Sky in Your Backyard
In this 4-lesson course, students will learn how to identify various stars and constellations they can see right from their own backyard. (Ages 7-12) Only $7!
Categories: : astronomy, children, Christian, Hiomeschool Resources, homeschooling, Science, solar system