Lesson 13: Are there other planets in the Solar System?

Textbook:

Recommended resource
The Astronomy Book Dr Jonathan Henry The second book in the highly successful ‘Wonders of Creation’ series. The Astronomy Book soars through the solar system! The reader will acquire a wealth of knowledge on subjects such as supernovas, red shift, facts about planets, and much more. Enhanced with dozens of color photos and illustrations including official NASA shots! ORDER YOUR COPY TODAY

The Astronomy Book

Introduction:

These lessons are geared for younger students. Many lessons will, however, include activities for the older student. Parents/teachers will easily find the answers to questions in the text, and should prepare themselves by reading the stated pages prior to having the student read the weekly assignment. If a child is not able to read yet, parents may wish to read the text to the student.

Read:

Pages 72-75

Scripture:

Romans 8:20-22
Genesis 1:14-18
Hebrews 4:15

Questions to answer:

1. Although the book states, 'Astronomers have found no planets outside our solar system', this is an out-dated statement. Please read The existence and origin of extrasolar planets for up-dated information. Describe a Biblical perspective on the existence of planets outside the solar system.
2. When reading articles in either newspapers or magazines about new discoveries in any scientific discipline (e.g. paleontology, anthropology, geology, biology, etc.), what question should you ask about what you're reading?
3. What causes a star to appear to 'wobble'?
4. Biblically, why do we not expect to find signs of intelligent life outside of Earth? (See Life on Mars? and God and the Extraterrestrials.)
5. What does SETI stand for?
6. Parents/teachers should read the 'What are UFOs?' section and God and the Extraterrestrials and explain the contents to their students. Include an explanation of the Gospel message.

Recommended resource

Journeys to the Edge of Creation Moody Institute of Science See through the eyes of the Hubble telescope as this visually stunning series probes the mysteries of the heavens. Only the Master Planner could have created it with such precision and loving care. Available in a boxed set. Our Solar System: As long as man has gazed into the night skies, he has wondered at the world of space. How big is it? Who keeps it all in place? Now you can see for yourself in this remarkable exploration of the universe -- and our own place within it. The Milky Way & Beyond: Quasars, nebulae, and exploding stars. See them all! Thrill to the vastness of God's Creation as this incredible video brings the deepest regions of space into sharper focus than ever before in history. ORDER YOUR COPY TODAY

Words to know:

Binary stars
Exobiology
UFO

Additional articles:

There are several articles on the Answers in Genesis Web site about this topic. Some are listed below.

New UFO theory
Life from space?
Alien life Q&A

NOTE: Parents/teachers may wish to read these articles and summarize them for younger students.