US Astronomy Class Explores Cosmic Mysteries Through Hands-On Learning

Upper School astronomy students are exploring the vastness of the universe through interactive lessons designed to ignite curiosity and critical thinking. The unit lesson encouraged students to wonder, explore, discover, create, imagine, and consider their personal connections to celestial phenomena visible in the night sky.

In this lesson, Upper School students confronted the enormous scale of the cosmos, challenging their understanding of distance and size beyond everyday experience. This initial exploration naturally leads to the question: How do astronomers measure such immense distances?

To answer this, the class engaged in classroom activities that culminated in a hands-on simulation of cosmic expansion. Using a balloon to represent space and stickers as galaxies, students observe how the universe expands with each breath inflating the balloon, modeling the phenomena astronomers have observed. This hands-on lab offers a tangible way to grasp the concept of an expanding universe and the groundbreaking discoveries made over the past century.

Throughout the lessons, students actively participate by sharing their questions and theories, driving class discussions that look deeper into cosmology, the study of the origin and evolution of the universe. According to Dr. Stephanie Capen, St. Margaret’s director of institutional research and astronomy teacher, this student-led curiosity is central to the learning experience, as it mirrors the inquisitive spirit of professional astronomers.

“The questions and ideas from the students shape the curriculum and the conversations we have each class,” said Dr. Capen. “Hearing their insights and wonderings as they grapple with some of the most significant questions in astronomy today is incredibly rewarding.”

As the course progresses, students will continue to explore cosmic phenomena, further unraveling the mysteries of the universe through inquiry and collaborative discovery.