So Much More To Learn

NASA’s Kepler Mission, launched in 2009 was the first mission tasked with finding planets similar to Earth’s in terms of size, mass and similar surface temperature. To accomplish this task... See More

NASA’s Kepler Mission, launched in 2009 was the first mission tasked with finding planets similar to Earth’s in terms of size, mass and similar surface temperature. To accomplish this task astronomers looked at the data sent back from Kepler for tiny changes in the brightness stars’ that occurs when a planet crosses in front of it. The balance of the article discusses astronomer’s expectations, discovering extra solar planets and more. This article provides insight as to why we still have lots to do when exploring outer space.

Good overview of Kepler mission

This article gives a great overview of resources that can be used to help middle school students understand the Kepler mission. It also explains the application of physics in finding exoplan... See More

This article gives a great overview of resources that can be used to help middle school students understand the Kepler mission. It also explains the application of physics in finding exoplanets. When used in conjunction with the data that can be found at http://kepler.nasa.gov/, it would be an excellent addition to an astronomy unit or a light unit. I could also see using these resources with modifications with high school students.