Astrononmy Belt Loop and Pin
Tiger Cubs, Cub Scouts, and Webelos Scouts may complete requirements in a den, pack, school, or community environment. Tiger Cubs must work with their parents or adult partners. Parents and partners do not earn loops or pins.
Requirements for Astronomy Belt Loop:
Determine how to focus a simple telescope or binoculars. (A local astronomy club may be a good resource for this activity.)
Draw a diagram of our solar system - identify the planets and other objects.
Explain the following terms: planet, star, solar system, galaxy, the Milky Way, a black hole, red giant, white dwarf, comet, meteor, moon, asteroid, star map and universe.
Requirements for the Astronomy Pin:
Earn the Astronomy Belt Loop and complete five more of the following requirements:
Draw a diagram of a telescope and explain how it works.
Explain how to use a star map.
Draw and label five constellations. See if you can locate any of them in the sky using a star map.
Find the North Star. Explain it's importance.
Interview and astronomer. This person may be a professional or an amateur astronomer from a local astronomy club. Report what you learned to your Den, Pack or family.
Learn about careers that relate to astronomy. What school subjects will help you get a job in astronomy?
Visit a planetarium or a local astronomy club. Give a report on what you learned to your Den.
Make a poster illustrating the different kinds of stars. Include a diagram showing the life cycle of a star.
Learn about some of the early space missions. Tell your Den or family about one of them.
Find a news story about a recent happening related to space. Tell your Den or family about this event.
Write a report on two(2) famous astronomers.
Locate three (3) major observatories on a map. Explain why these locations are good for astronomy.