Physics | The Schools' Observatory

Measure the Sun's Rotation

You may know that the Earth rotates around an axis, but did you know the Sun does too?

So how long is a solar day? In this activity, you will find out!

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Mario Hamuy

Early Life

Mario was born in Chile. Although his dad was a politician Mario found a love for science. He got degrees in physics and astronomy from the University of Chile.

Year born: 1960

Research Areas: Observational Astronomy, Supernovae, Cosmic Distances

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Measure the Speed of Light

Einstein showed that the speed of light is a universal constant. This means that it always travels at the same speed in a vacuum.

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Make Your Own Spectroscope

Spectroscopy involves splitting light into its different wavelengths. Each chemical element emits or absorbs a unique spectrum&n

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How Do Satellites Stay In Orbit?

A satellite is an object which orbits another. An orbit is the curved path that an object in space takes around another object.

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Explore Gravity

Use our simulator to investigate the effect of gravity on other worlds. Then use your measurements and a bit of maths to calculate the strength of gravity in each location across the Solar System!