This interactive accompanies the lesson "Using Spectral Data to Explore Saturn and Titan"

• Mars Global Surveyor: Thermal Emission Spectrometer
• Cassini UVIS
• FUSE - Exploring Our Universe: From the Classroom to Outer Space
• MiniSpectroscopy Virtual Spectroscope
• Astronomy Camp: Spectroscopy
• Infrared Spectroscopy in Astronomy
• Science Lives! Spectroscopy
• USGS Spectroscopy Lab: Planetary Spectra

Project SPECTRA! is a science and engineering program for 6th - 12th grade students, focusing on how light is used to explore the Solar System. Project SPECTRA! emphasizes hands-on activities, like building a spectragraph, as well as the use of real data to solve scientific questions.

Here, you will find lessons for middle school students that can also be easily adapted for high school students or modified for elementary school students. Each lesson has a front page listing national standards in science and mathematics, prior knowledge students need for the lesson, materials, and time to complete the lesson. We have also provided tables listing national standards the lessons conform to, and a scope and sequence. We have included fun and informational links to explore the nature of light and spectroscopy further.

What is a Data Story?

A data story is an inquiry driven, standards-based lesson using real data from actual spacecraft! Each data story is a cogent, well-bounded story of solar system exploration that is accessible to students.

Project SPECTRA! is now collecting solar system data stories!

The goal of Project SPECTRA! is to advance knowledge of Solar System exploration by providing students with actual spectroscopic data in an accessible format. We will transform data into a standards-based classroom activity, a "data story." If you have some data to share, and would like to participate in this innovative program, please fill out this on-line submission form. Ideas and comments are also welcome.

Project SPECTRA! is currently in development. To learn more about its history and its future direction, download a recent presentation (.pdf 324 kb).

Space Science Teacher's Summit

This is an innovative science program for middle and high school teachers. Learn about space sciences from scientist with a focus on: outer planets, space weather, spectroscopy, and astrobiology. Explore space science lessons and activities. Dates:  June 8-12, 2008

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