Map of Solar System: See How Far Away Planets Are!

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SUMMARY

The forum discussion centers around an interactive map of the solar system found at this link, which illustrates the vast distances between celestial bodies. Users express awe at the scale of the solar system, noting the difficulty of visualizing such distances, particularly in relation to light travel time to Pluto. Suggestions for improving the map include making it vertical and reducing its size to minimize scrolling through empty space. The conversation also touches on philosophical reflections about the emptiness of space and the nature of the universe.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of astronomical distances and light travel time
  • Familiarity with interactive web maps and user interface design
  • Basic knowledge of the solar system's structure and celestial bodies
  • Concepts of time dilation in physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Explore advanced astronomical visualization tools like Universe Sandbox
  • Research the concept of light years and its implications in astronomy
  • Learn about the physics of time dilation and its effects on space travel
  • Investigate user experience design principles for interactive maps
USEFUL FOR

Astronomy enthusiasts, educators, web developers, and anyone interested in visualizing the vastness of the solar system and improving interactive educational tools.

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Whew! My fingers are tired from scrolling!
 
This gave me a deep respect for Galileo and Tombaugh. Eris would have been fine (less than 6,771 more maps). But in any case, well done.
 
Good thing they let us scroll faster than the speed of light. Anyone else find that button? (bottom right hand corner)
Good lord! Light is slow.
5 ½ hours to Pluto? Ain't nobody got that much spare time for scrolling.

The Moody Blues were right, thinking is the best way to travel.

(or the buttons along the top. Nice warp-driveish way to get around the universe. :smile: )
 
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OmCheeto said:
Good thing they let us scroll faster than the speed of light. Anyone else find that button? (bottom right hand corner)
That is interesting to watch but it will have to wait for another time. :smile:
 
How come it took so long? Shouldn't have time dilation made it go faster! :biggrin:
 
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This map would be better if vertical (my computer can not easily scroll sideways).
This map would be better if smaller (no point wasting time scrolling empty space).
 
eltodesukane said:
This map would be better if vertical (my computer can not easily scroll sideways).
This map would be better if smaller (no point wasting time scrolling empty space).
You can use the planet buttons on top to scroll to them.
 
  • #10
eltodesukane said:
This map would be better if smaller (no point wasting time scrolling empty space).

I believe that's the whole idea.
 
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  • #11
eltodesukane said:
This map would be better if vertical (my computer can not easily scroll sideways).
This map would be better if smaller (no point wasting time scrolling empty space).
But it does show there's too much space in space. Something is wrong with the universe.
 
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  • #12
eltodesukane said:
But it does show there's too much space in space. Something is wrong with the universe.

I kind of agree, as I've heard similar comments about atoms.

There's just too much missing "solid" stuff, both above and below our 3D planes of perception.

hmmm...
 
  • #13
Take a look at Venus one of those times around sunset when it's near its max angular separation from the Sun, and try to imagine the actual distance between that tiny speck and its star. How in the world did the Solar system get so empty anyway?
 

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