Astronomy Interactives/Animations from U. of Nebraska

Here is an incredible collection of astronomy resources for you to examine (play with) in your spare time this summer. This motherlode of animations and interactives is provided by the University of Nebraska - Lincoln. One of my favorites is their Planetary Orbit Simulator, which demonstrates Keppler's first and second laws of planetary motion. Be sure to play with the settings!

Also, here's another fun site that shows the current location of the planets. CLICK HERE to take a look. You can change the settings in the windows beneath the image. The site is developed and maintained by Chris Peat of Heavens-Above.

Go "Retro" - Retrograde Animation

Diagram courtesy of San Jose Astronomical Association

Retrograde motion is a tough one to explain to students without some sort of visual aid. This animation by the University of Nebraska is a very helpful tool. CLICK HERE to watch it.

To learn more about retrograde motion, including the Ptolemaic model and the Copernican model, CLICK HERE (courtesy of LaSalle University).