Solar System to Scale

Type: 3D-Model
Subjects: Mathematics, Physics
Created with: OpenSCAD
Language: English
Created by: Sarah Hayman

Description of the model

This is a remixed scale model of the solar system with Braille labels on the vertical faces of the base. The planetary sizes are based on data from NASA. The curve at the back represents part of the Sun.

There several versions of this print

The model with scale factor 0.0003 (1mm = 3333 km)
The model with scale factor 0.0003 (1mm = 3333 km) and Saturn’s ring attached to Saturn (stronger).
‘V2’ has separate files for Jupiter, Saturn and the Sun, then the rest of the planets together, all with scale factor 0.0006 (1 mm = 1667 km).

The Braille on the first two models reads;
Front: solar system
Left side: mercury
Right side: neptune
Back: sun

Things to explore:

Can you identify all the planets?
Can you find the rings of Saturn? (In V2 they have a rough texture.)
Can you find the Moon? It’s near the Earth
Which is bigger – Jupiter or Saturn? Uranus or Neptune? Venus or Earth? the moon or Mercury?

Remixed from Scale model of the Solar System

Side on view of solar system, Mercury in braille on the base

Printing instructions and tips

The first two models can be printed as is, some support will be required for Saturn’s ring.

V2 can be painted and then glued to a base (a piece of wood has been used in the photos). I used ‘puffy’ paint to highlight things on Jupiter and Saturn, like the Great Red Spot. Mix sand with paint to paint the rings of Saturn to give them a different texture. Paint the connector bit black for contrast. This version is larger and can be spread out more if required.