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What's in the Atmosphere?
https://climatekids.nasa.gov/whats-in-the-atmosphere/

National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Climate Kids

This interactive visualization allows users to scroll on their device to view what types of characteristics and objects might be found at different points in the atmosphere. Using an indicator of miles (or kilometers) above sea level, the visualization shows what satellites might be present, or what scientific phenomenon (thermosphere, Kármán Line, meteors, etc.) might be happening at different levels.

Learn more about Teaching Climate Literacy and Energy Awareness»


Grade Level

Online Readiness

Topics

Climate Literacy

This Simulation/Interactive builds on the following concepts of Climate Literacy.

Click a topic below for supporting information, teaching ideas, and sample activities.

Notes From Our Reviewers The CLEAN collection is hand-picked and rigorously reviewed for scientific accuracy and classroom effectiveness. Read what our review team had to say about this resource below or learn more about how CLEAN reviews teaching materials
Teaching Tips | Science | Pedagogy | Technical Details

Teaching Tips

  • Because this visualization helps provide an overview of the atmosphere, connecting this visualization to climate change specifically will take additional resources and discussion. Have a worksheet or something they could fill out. A graphic organizer would help.

About the Content

  • This is a visual representation of our atmosphere, traveling up from sea level to the outer reaches of Earth's atmosphere, with images of things you might find along the way. In this, the visualization also shows how far different layers of the atmosphere are and how clouds, satellites, and other flying objects differ in height.
  • Passed initial science review - expert science review pending.

About the Pedagogy

  • Teaching about the atmosphere is a first step toward teaching about the greenhouse effect. This visualization could help students understand more about atmospheric composition.
  • This visualization tells a story as you are traveling up into space.

Technical Details/Ease of Use

  • Classes will need the internet to use this resource and will need to be patient while scrolling through the various layers and features of the atmosphere.
  • The strong graphics pull users into the story and increase enjoyment for teachers and students.
Entered the Collection: September 2023 Last Reviewed: June 2023

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