I've got some fantastic space experiments to share today. These are great for World Space Week, a space science themed activity day or for learning about space in general!
Space themed science experiments are one of my favourite themes for science at home and school. There's so much to explore. Rockets, forces, potential life on other planets, unanswered questions. It's most definitely a topic we love to learn about, with endless possibilities and creative opportunities.
Space Experiments for Kids
How is the Universe expanding?
Did you know the Universe is constantly expanding? Our balloon model demonstrates visually and very simply how this works!
One idea to help visualise the vastness of space is to walk the solar system! Don't worry, we've scaled it down a LOT!! All you need for this simple activity is a tape measure, chalk and an outdoor space.
How does a spacecraft dock with the ISS?
Gain a little insight into how hard it is to control a spacecraft docking with the ISS in this tricky activity. You'll be standing still when you try, but the space station is travelling at 28000km per hour!!!
How do planets orbit the sun?
Find out how planets and moons orbit each other by finding some friends and modelling the orbit of planets and moons around the sun.
Learning about orbits is a great time to make an eclipse model too!
Easy Rocket Experiments for Kids
Baking Soda Powered Rocket
I think this baking soda rocket is my favourite rocket we've made. It shoots up very quickly, so make sure you stand back!
Rocket Mouse
Find out how to make a rocket mouse. This activity is a great introduction to the concept of forces and doesn't have to be mouse themed!
Straw Rocket
How far can you shoot a straw rocket? Try changing the angle and force to form your investigation.
Film Canister Rockets
Film canister rockets are fantastic fun and very explosive so don't forget to stand back.
Water Powered Bottle Rocket
Finally, one of our all time favourites making a bottle rocket!
Astronaut Experiments
Fix the astronauts glove
What would you use to fix an astronauts glove with a hole in it? Why would a hole in a glove be very bad in space?
Moon Experiments
Find out how craters form by dropping marbles into flour and hot chocolate powder.
Discover what causes the phases of the moon with oreos or cupcakes!
Space science for little ones
How about a space themed sensory rice tray for little ones? You could add magnets and encourage children to find space junk that is attracted to the magnets.
Gift of Curiosity also has an easy way to demonstrate how planets orbit the sun.
Space Scientists
Try this easy activity for learning about Heliocentrism and Copernicus.
If you've got a few days available, try my DIY space camp!
I've also got some simple science demonstrations related to Galileo, Caroline Hershel and Issac Newton.
If you enjoyed these space science experiments don't forget to check out our other easy science experiments for kids.
Space Science Fun at Home
This free mini activity booklet created in collaboration with PSTT has lots of simple space science ideas perfect for primary school age children.
I created a FREE downloadable booklet of space science resources for British Science Week last year, so do take a look at that as well. The booklet contains six easy space science activities perfect for an afternoon of space experiments!
Space Science Books
I also have a space science book available! This Is Rocket Science explores the principles behind space flight, explaining difficult concepts in easy-to-understand terms using fun and easy experiments and investigations.
Each project is designed to show how mechanical science and astrophysics work from the inside out without being overwhelming. Using everyday items like bottles, cardboard, glue and tape, you can build awesome rocket ships, launch pads and solar systems to learn more about scientific concepts like Newton’s Laws of Motion, speed, gravity and air resistance.
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Last Updated on April 9, 2024 by Emma Vanstone
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