Neptune, the Last Planet in the Solar System

In this class, students will learn in-depth about the farthest planet from the Sun: the ice giant, Neptune.

Students will learn in depth details about the planet, Neptune. They will learn about the atmosphere and its supersonic winds; its Coriolis effect and how that affects dark vortices, including the Great Dark Spot; details about the Great Dark Spot and other dark spots that have come and gone; the story of how Neptune was discovered, including how Galileo first discovered it and mistook it for a star; the history of its exploration as well as its largest moon, Triton.

We will begin with a warmup, assessing what students know about Neptune. Then we will go on a grand tour of the planet and discover various details about Neptune, including the atmosphere, the formation and dissipation of the Great Dark Spot and other dark vortices on the planet, and other facts. Then they will have do an activity in which they create a mission to Neptune. Finally, they will learn some final fun facts before leaving Neptune.

My style of teaching is student centered. I allow students to participate as much or as little as they feel comfortable doing. I like to go into as much detail as possible about the planets in the Solar System. Students are encouraged to participate by asking questions and make comments during the class. Students are free to share verbally. They may use chat if they feel uncomfortable engaging verbally. Students will be able to discuss with me and with each other throughout the class. 

This class is for students of all levels of learning, whether they are beginners just beginning to learn about space or they have an extensive knowledge of astronomy. If students have not had much exposure to space, it is recommended that they take my "Astronomy for All Ages: A Grand Tour of the Solar System From Mercury to Pluto" class as it will help lay a foundation for learning more about the Solar System as well as enhancing their enjoyment of discovering more in-depth details about Neptune. While the age range is for students between the ages of 9 and 14, students of all ages are welcome. All they need is a desire to learn about space, astronomy and the Solar System.