What question did this study set out to answer?

To enhance middle and high school students' understanding of astrophysical phenomena through real datasets and practical activities in astronomy education.

February 6, 2026Open Access

Teaching Sun, Moon and Star Spectra Through Authentic Datasets

Key Points

To enhance middle and high school students' understanding of astrophysical phenomena through real datasets and practical activities in astronomy education.
Analysis of authentic spectral data to classify star types
Observation of sunspots using solar images
Calculation of the Wolf number to study solar activity
Determination of lunar phase angles from images
Hands-on activities connecting theoretical concepts with real data
Students successfully identify various star types from spectral data
Increased understanding of solar cycles and solar phenomena through practical activities
Enhanced comprehension of lunar phases via calculations and observations
Practical insights gained from authentic datasets from institutions like SDSS and NASA

Abstract

This is a poster presented at the 7th Shaw-IAU Workshop on Astronomy for Education, organised by the IAU Office of Astronomy for Education (OAE, https://astro4edu.org/shaw-iau/7th-shaw-iau-workshop/). Title: Teaching Sun, Moon and Star Spectra Through Authentic Datasets Presenter:Danijela Takač (OŠ Pantovčak) Practical activities for middle/high school students using authentic data to explore astrophysical phenomena. Students analyze real spectral data to identify star types and compositions, understanding spectroscopy's role in revealing stellar properties. They observe sunspots through solar images to study solar cycles, calculate the Wolf number, and determine solar rotation velocity, deepening knowledge of solar activity like flares. Additionally, students calculate the Moon’s phase angle from actual images to understand lunar phases. These activities, using authentic datasets from SDSS, NASA, IRIS, and SOHO, connect theory with real astrophysical data for experiential learning. Collaborators:Ana Marija Zaninović (high school physics and astronomy teacher in Zagreb Croatia, member of NAEC Croatia team) About the 7th Shaw-IAU Workshop:The 7th Shaw-IAU Workshop took place 18 - 21 November 2025. The Shaw-IAU workshops focus on astronomy education for primary and secondary school students and teacher training both in universities and in service. This year's Education focus session on Teaching with authentic data and the Science focus is on Galaxies.More details can be found on: https://astro4edu.org/shaw-iau/Keep up to date with future Shaw-IAU Workshops and other opportunities at the IAU Office of Astronomy for Education by joining our mailing list https://astro4edu.org/mailing-list/ Follow the IAU OAE on Bluesky and Facebook under @astro4edu

Teaching Sun, Moon and Star Spectra Through Authentic Datasets

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