Thames & Kosmos Orbiting Solar System STEM Experiment Kit

Grades 1 and up.

Build a mechanical model of our solar system (also known as an orrery), wind it up, and watch the planets revolve around the sun. Assemble this complex machince using snap-together plastic parts to learn how the gears and wind-up mechanism work to spin the model.

Detail each planet with colorful, realistic-looking printed planted graphics.

Discover how a special type of gear called a planetary gear is used to simulate the mesmerizing motion of the solar system. Explore fundamental gear mechanics as planets travel at different speeds depending on the gear ratio.

Learn about the order of the planets, their relative sizes, their rates of revolution around the sun, their appearance, and other planetary facts. Bonus: There's a built-in expansion slot in case the mysterious Planet Nine is discovered!

This kit includes 28 pieces and an 8-page full-color illustrated assembly guide. No batteries required.