In a spectacular, comprehensive presentation The Planets draws on consultations with over a thousand leading astronomers, engineers, scientists and astronauts. Featuring seldom-seen NASA archival footage, awe-inspiring imagery from instruments like the Hubble space telescope, and stunning computer graphics and special effects, this unprecedented series explores both the alien beauty of our local space environment and the extraordinary technology that enables us to unlock its secrets. The Planets would be useful for classes on Science and Technology, Astronomy, and World History. It is appropriate for middle school and high school.

Destiny

What is the long-term fate of the planets in our solar system? Voyage to a future billions of years in the distance and explore the sun's expansion as it engulfs its planetary progeny in the final, fiery act of its billion yearlong dilemma.

OBJECTIVES

Students will explore the theories of the creation of the universe and examine the different properties of celestial bodies. They will analyze the relationship between the sun, our own planet Earth and the other planets. They will discover the unlimited potential of the science of astronomy, and the most current space information about space travel and exploration.

NATIONAL SCIENCE EDUCATION STANDARDS

The Planets fulfills the following National Science Education Standards: Unifying concepts and processes in science; science as inquiry; physical science; Earth and space science; Science and technology; history and nature of science.

• benevolent
• comprehension
• dissipate
• distend
• fluctuate
• intrigue
• pixel
• precursor
• sanctuary
• sordid
• turbulent

1. The Sun is the life force of our solar system. Why are we dependent on the Sun for our existence? How does the Sun determine our fate?

2. The name of this episode of The Planets is Destiny. What is destiny? Do people have control over their destiny?

3. The Earth is different when viewed from the perspective of the moon. What is a perspective? How does it alter our understanding or comprehension? Can you think of some examples that illustrate how perspective changes our opinions and attitudes?

4. Scientists believe Saturn will lose its rings in the future. Why?

5. How do scientists use moon rocks to determine the future of the Sun?

6. What do scientists believe will eventually happen to the Earth?

7. Scientists believe that life cannot exist on the planet Mars. Why is this planet incapable of sustaining life, as we know it?

8. Scientists believe that Europa, one of Jupiter's moons, will be capable of sustaining life. Why?

9. What is spectroscopy? How does one use spectroscopy to analyze starlight?

10. What is the Big Bang theory?

11. Why do stars become Red Giants?

1. Research the path of the Voyager probe on the Internet. Using this information, create a chart of the probe's journey.

2. Create a chart or poster that illustrates the life of a star.

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Air Dates

• June 18, 2004