Explore the Solar System From Your Home

Have you ever dreamed of embarking on a cosmic journey to explore the planets, moons, and spacecraft that populate our solar system? Now you can, without the need for an expensive spacecraft. NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) has developed a remarkable, free-to-use software called "Eyes on the Solar System" that allows you to navigate the cosmos in real-time.

A Virtual Journey Through Space

As children, many of us were captivated by the wonders of space, devouring astronomy books and dreaming of interstellar travel. This fascination often sparks a lifelong passion for space exploration. "Eyes on the Solar System" brings that dream to life, offering an interactive and immersive experience that allows you to explore the solar system from the comfort of your own home.

What is "Eyes on the Solar System?"

"Eyes on the Solar System" is a 3D visualization tool created by NASA's JPL. It provides a realistic and interactive model of our solar system, allowing users to:

Explore planets and moons: View detailed models of celestial bodies, observe their rotations, and learn about their unique characteristics.
Track spacecraft: Follow the real-time trajectories of NASA's robotic missions, witnessing their journeys to distant worlds.
Control time: Speed up or slow down time to observe celestial events, such as sunsets on the International Space Station or the flyby of a spacecraft.
Access historical data: Travel back in time to witness past missions and explore historical data from 1950 to 2050.

Key Features and Benefits

Earth View

Starting with a familiar view of Earth, you can zoom in to see continents, countries, and even cities. Unlike Google Earth, which focuses on bringing you closer to your backyard, "Eyes on the Solar System" takes you on a journey to the stars.

Spacecraft Exploration

The software features a comprehensive collection of 3D models of science-based Earth orbiters. By double-clicking on a spacecraft, you can virtually ride along and experience its mission firsthand. For example, you can join the International Space Station (ISS) and witness a sunset every 90 minutes.

Inner Solar System

Zoom out to view the entire inner solar system, including planets like Saturn and Jupiter. Observe active missions, such as the Mars Science Laboratory on its way to Mars, Juno cruising to Jupiter, Dawn orbiting Vesta, and New Horizons heading towards Pluto.

Visiting Celestial Bodies

With a simple double-click, you can instantly travel to any planet or moon in the solar system. Observe Uranus rotating on its side, or witness Dawn orbiting Vesta in real-time.

Reliving Voyager 1's Titan Flyby

One of the most captivating features of "Eyes on the Solar System" is the ability to relive historical missions. Travel back to November 11, 1980, and ride along with Voyager 1 as it flies by Titan, Saturn's hazy moon. Speed up time to witness the flyby and understand how Saturn's gravity slingshot Voyager 1 out of the solar system.

Why Use "Eyes on the Solar System?"

Interactive Learning: Manipulate the program, fly around the solar system, and learn at your own pace.
Accessibility: The software is free and available to the public, making space exploration accessible to everyone.
Inspiration: Witness the wonders of space and be inspired to pursue STEM education and a dream in space exploration.

"Eyes on the Solar System" offers a unique opportunity to grasp the vastness and complexity of our solar system. It's a powerful tool for education, exploration, and inspiration, allowing you to experience the wonders of space from the comfort of your own home. Download the software today and embark on your own cosmic adventure!