Moon Crater Impact Model
Introduction:
The moon’s surface is covered with craters formed by meteorite impacts over billions of years. Galileo was among the first to observe these features through a telescope and realize that the moon was not a smooth, perfect sphere. This challenged long-held beliefs that all celestial bodies were flawless and unchanging. By observing the rugged surface of the moon, Galileo helped shift humanity’s understanding of the universe. In this activity, children will simulate how craters are formed and what factors affect their size and shape, using simple materials to recreate this fascinating natural process. It will help students grasp the importance of observation, experimentation, and how one discovery can change the way we see the world.
What You Will Need:
A large shallow tray or baking dish
All-purpose flour (enough to fill the tray 2–3 cm deep)
Cocoa powder or fine cinnamon (to lightly coat the top of the flour)
A spoon or sifter for dusting
Assorted small balls (marbles, rubber balls, small stones)
Ruler or measuring tape
Notebook and pencil for observations
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Fill the tray with flour to create a smooth, level surface.
Lightly dust the top of the flour with cocoa powder using a sifter. This dark layer will help reveal crater patterns.
Hold one of the balls about 30 cm above the surface and drop it straight down into the center of the tray.
Observe the crater that forms. Notice the spread of the cocoa powder and the pattern around the impact site.
Try dropping the same ball from different heights. Record how the height affects the size of the crater.
Use different sized balls and observe how mass and shape change the crater.
Measure the diameter and depth of each crater and record your results.
What to Look For:
Does a higher drop create a deeper or wider crater?
What happens when a heavier ball is used?
Can you see radial lines or ejecta patterns from the impact?
Fun Fact:
Galileo’s telescope was powerful enough to reveal the rugged mountains and valleys of the moon. Before his observations, many believed the moon was perfectly smooth and flat.
Safety Tip:
Be sure to supervise children so they do not throw balls too forcefully, especially if using heavier items.
Journaling Prompt:
Draw one of the craters you created. Write about what you observed when changing the height or weight of the impactor. What do you think this tells us about real meteorites and the moon’s history?
