We are excited to provide astronomy activities for families of all ages. Some are suited for young children as well and are marked as such. This is a great way to introduce children to the wonders of the Universe. Some events also have a video tutorial to help you get started. We stream many events live from our Facebook Page. Some are also streamed to our YouTube Channel. All events can be watched anytime from either Facebook/Videos or our YouTube Channel. These include Star Parties and other astronomy related events.

Previous Virtual Star Parties with links are listed at the bottom of this webpage.

The nebulosity associated with M45 is not the progenitor of the cluster. Instead, it is a nebula through which M45 is passing. NASA Image, Robert Gendler — NASA Image, Robert Gendler

Facebook & YouTube Links

TAAA Facebook

TAAA YouTube

Virtual Activities

Virtual Star Parties

Our next virtual star party will be held November 18, 2022, starting 7:00 pm (AZ/PDT/UTC-7). It will be streaming live to our YouTube Channel and will be on our Facebook Page the next day (Links Above). Previous VIRTUAL star parties are listed at the bottom of this page.

Making a Planisphere or Star Wheel (ages 8 and up)

Astronomers use a Planisphere or Star Wheel to show constellations and other bright objects in the night sky for a particular date and time. Although you can buy a Planisphere, it is also a fun project to make then try out on any clear night. We are using an already designed kit called Uncle Al’s Star Wheel. Use the link below to print out the design. You can print it out on regular paper or better yet, card stock for a stiffer Star Wheel. We also included a video to show how make it and use it and some questions to practice using the Star Wheel.

Star Wheel Design: Starwheel

How to Make/Use Star Wheel Video: Star Wheel Video

Star Wheel Questions: Star Wheel Questions

Pocket Solar System (all ages)

Using paper, make a scale model showing the relative distances between the planets in our Solar System. This is a great way to learn the planets and where they are in relation to the Sun and other planets. This is designed for using adding machine or cash register paper (long strip paper) but can be adapted to use standard paper.

Planet Pictures

Link to Video.

Moon Faces & Apollo Landings (all ages)

Print out a picture of the Moon and draw patterns of the Lunar Poodle, Man in the Moon, Lady in the Moon, and the Lunar Rabbit. You can also draw where the Apollo Moon Landings took place. You can create your own patterns or faces. Useful as an introduction to the features of the lunar surface. Print four copies for all activities.

Moon Picture

Moon Faces & Apollo Landings

Virtual Moon Exploration (ages 8 & up)

TAAA explores Objects on the Moon, draws some familiar faces such as the Lunar Poodle, the Man in the Moon, and the Lady in the Moon, show Apollo landing sites, explore Lunar phases, and talk about different cultural views of the Moon. More complete activity of the moon than the one above.

June 27, 2020: Virtual Moon Exploration

Moon Picture

Constellation Transformation (all ages)

Using your imagination, create new constellation patterns (“I used to be ABC, now I am XYZ”). You can also write a poem about your new constellation. Great way to expand your view of the night sky and incorporate other sciences and arts.

Constellation Transformation

Astronomy Word Searches

Find the Solar System, Constellations or Asterisms, General Astronomy, Telescope Parts, and an easy Astronomy Search for Young Astronomers. The first part will take you to the project. The second part has the Answer Key for each one if you want to view/print. This is a fun way to expand your knowledge of the night sky and astronomy.

Solar System Word Search

Constellations Word Search

Astronomy Word Search

Telescope Word Search

Astronomy Word Search for Young Astronomers

2c Mercury Crater Wordsearch V1

2d Mercury Crater Wordsearch V2

2e Women of Moon Word Search, Women in Science