Learning About Constellations on the Light Table

We took some time to learn about stars and constellations using our light table recently.  The inspiration for this activity came from translucent stars that I found at the Dollar Tree last week.

Space Themed Light Table Activity for Kids

While checking out the Dollar Tree last week, I came across some plastic translucent jewelry links for kids.  In the package were stars, hearts, and flowers in three colors: pink, yellow, and purple.  As soon as I saw them, I knew they would be perfect for the light table.

To set up the activity, I first taped some blue tissue paper to the top of the light table.  I wanted to use black, but had to settle with blue since I couldn't find any black tissue paper.  Regardless, the blue worked well to create a perfect evening sky for the stars to shine.

I then printed off the constellation cards that I found here.  However, every single time I tried to print them it would only print the first two pages.  So we had to make due with the two constellations that would print off.

I placed the two constellation cards and a basket of stars on the light table.  J started off the activity by placing the stars on top of the constellation cards.

Afterwards, he started coming up with his own constellations and even gave them some names.

Here's the "U" constellation.

And here is J building his next constellation.  What will it be called?

Well, he called this constellation "Buttons."  Why?  Well, if you turn your head, then you will notice that it is a 3 x 4 grid just like the buttons of a telephone.

J really enjoyed this activity and it was a great way to introduce constellations to him.  And it was great to see his imagination at work!

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