Learning about the solar system is one of the most fascinating parts of science. It opens our minds to the wonders of the universe and helps us understand how tiny Earth is in comparison to space. And what’s the best way to make learning fun? Solar system projects! Whether it’s for a science fair, classroom activity, or just a weekend craft, building a model of the solar system is a great way for students to learn by doing.

In this blog, we’ve collected 75+ amazing solar system project ideas for students of all ages—from kindergarten kids to high school students. These ideas use easy-to-find materials, encourage creativity, and help kids understand space better. Whether your child loves drawing, crafting, or building things, you’ll find the perfect solar system project idea here.

Why Solar System Projects Matter for Students

Solar system projects are a powerful way to introduce kids to astronomy and space science. By working on these projects:

• Students learn the names and order of planets.
• They understand the concept of orbit, revolution, and rotation.
• They learn fun facts like which planet is the hottest, which has rings, etc.
• It encourages STEAM learning (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Maths).
• Hands-on activities help children remember better than passive learning.

Also read: STEM Fair Project Ideas for Students

How to Choose the Right Solar System Project

Before beginning a project, consider the following:

✅ Age Group

Choose a project that suits the student’s grade level. Simple flat charts for younger kids, more detailed 3D models for older students.

✅ Materials

Use items that are easily available—paper, clay, thermocol balls, cardboard, etc. Some projects may need advanced tools (like motors).

✅ Project Goal

Is it for fun? A class assignment? A science presentation? Pick a project based on time and effort available.

✅ Interest Level

Let the child pick what excites them most—crafting, painting, or building moving models.

Solar System Project Ideas by Age Group

⭐ A. Solar System Projects for Kids (Ages 5–7)

These are perfect for kindergarten and early primary school children. They are simple, safe, and use easily available materials.

1. Paper Plate Solar System

• Paint a paper plate and stick cutouts of planets in order. Use glitter for the Sun!

1. Playdough Planets

• Use colored playdough to mold planets. A fun way to learn sizes and colors.

1. Solar System Necklace

• String beads of different sizes to represent planets and wear them as a necklace.

1. Cotton Ball Galaxy

• Make a galaxy craft using cotton balls, watercolors, and glitter.

1. Solar System Finger Painting

• Paint planets with fingers on craft paper. Great for motor skills.

1. Sticker Chart Solar System

• Use stickers to create the Sun and planets on a chart paper.

1. Planet Spinner Wheel

• Make a simple paper wheel with planets rotating around the Sun.

1. Felt Planet Board

• Use felt fabric to cut out planets and create a sensory solar system activity.

1. Solar System Puzzle

• Draw or print a solar system and cut into puzzle pieces. Kids solve and learn at the same time.

1. Solar System Mobile
   • Hang planets from a coat hanger or branch with thread. Kids love watching them spin.

⭐ B. Solar System Projects for Middle School (Ages 8–12)

Middle school students are ready to explore more detailed and creative ideas.

11. 3D Solar System Model with Styrofoam Balls

• Paint thermocol balls in planet colors and hang using wires or skewers.

11. Glow-in-the-Dark Solar System

• Use glow paints or glow stickers to create a dark room solar system.

11. Solar System in a Shoebox

• Use a shoebox as space and hang small planets inside. Simple mini-project!

11. Clay Solar System with Labels

• Mold planets with air-dry clay and label each one.

11. Solar System Printable Puzzle Cube

• Create paper cubes with each face showing different planets and facts.

11. Solar System Jigsaw

• Draw the solar system on cardboard and cut it into puzzle pieces.

11. Plastic Bottle Rocket with Solar System Display

• Make a rocket using a plastic bottle and add cutout planets on display board.

11. Bottle Cap Solar System

• Use different sized bottle caps to represent planets. Paint and stick!

11. Edible Solar System – Cake or Cupcakes

• Make a solar system using icing and toppings on cupcakes.

11. Planet Fact Spinner

• A spinner game where each spin gives facts about a planet.

⭐ C. Solar System Projects for High School (Ages 13–16)

High school students can explore advanced science projects involving logic and engineering.

21. Motorized Solar System Model

• Use a small motor and cardboard to show revolving planets in motion.

21. Arduino-Based Solar System Movement

• Code and use Arduino to make planets move around using servos.

21. Solar System VR Experience

• Create a virtual experience of space using 360° images and VR googles.

21. Layered Solar System with Planet Details

• Use stacked cardboard cutouts to display each planet’s surface, layers, and core.

21. Build a Solar Eclipse Model

• Show how eclipses occur using balls, light source, and sticks.

21. Solar System Scale Model (Distance and Size)

• Create a scaled-down version showing real distances between planets.

21. Augmented Reality Solar System Poster

• Use AR apps to display planets when the poster is scanned.

21. Planet Weight Calculator

• Make a math-based tool showing how much you’d weigh on different planets.

21. DIY Sundial

• Create a working sundial showing Earth’s relation to the Sun.

21. Time-Lapse Solar System Animation Video

• Use stop-motion animation to create short planet movement sequences.

⭐ D. Solar System Projects for Science Exhibitions & Fairs

These are eye-catching and highly creative ideas for competitions or school fairs.

31. Light-up Solar System

• Install small LED lights inside planets for a light-up exhibit.

31. Floating Planets Display

• Hang planets from the ceiling with transparent strings for a floating effect.

31. Solar System Diorama in a Box

• Create a 3D solar system landscape inside a display box.

31. Planet Pop-Up Book

• Design a pop-up book where each page displays a 3D planet with facts.

31. Solar System Board Game

• Design a board game to help players learn while playing.

31. Planetarium Dome (DIY)

• Build a small dome with planets projected inside.

31. Solar System with Revolving Orbits Using Gears

• Use cardboard gears to simulate true orbit motion.

31. Solar System Sound Project

• Record sounds associated with each planet (scientific tone/audio).

31. Planet Time Capsule

• Create a “planet capsule” with objects representing each planet.

31. Recycled Planets Project: Use trash items like cans, boxes, and old CDs to build planets.

⭐ E. DIY Solar System Crafts (Fun Activities)

These solar system crafts are great for rainy day activities or school craft competitions. They’re mostly made using common craft supplies.

41. Foam Ball Solar System Hanger

• Paint foam balls as planets and thread them into a hanging mobile. Lightweight and easy to make.

41. Solar System Paper Lanterns

• Glue paper planets onto small lanterns or lamps. You can light them up for cool room décor.

41. Button Solar System Art

• Glue colorful buttons of different sizes on black chart paper to form planet shapes.

41. Solar System in a Jar

• Use small clay balls or beads as planets inside a mason jar filled with glitter to create a galaxy effect.

41. Origami Planets

• Fold paper into planet shapes and stick them on a dark background to form a wall display.

41. Chalk Solar System on the Floor

• Draw planets on the floor using chalk and let kids jump from planet to planet.

41. Planet Pebble Painting

• Paint pebbles in different colors to look like planets and create a solar-themed garden display.

41. Solar System Scrapbook

• Create a scrapbook where each page represents a planet with pictures and interesting facts.

41. Felt Solar System Pouch

• Sew small felt planets on a pouch or pencil case for a customized school accessory.

41. Solar System Bracelet or Keychain

• Use beads to represent planets and turn them into wearable art—a fun yet educational craft activity.

⭐ F. 3D and Advanced Solar System Projects (Great for Presentations!)

51. Rotating Solar System Using Battery Motor

• Attach a motor to a cardboard base to rotate all planets around the Sun. Smart use of STEM in action!

51. Planet Puzzle Blocks

• Create block puzzles where each side shows a part of a planet or solar system fact.

51. Planet Pop-Up Timeline Book

• Create a timeline book that explains the formation of the solar system and shows how it evolves.

51. Solar System Model with Realistic Craters

• Use clay and tools to create real-looking craters on the Moon, Mercury, and Mars.

51. Planet Weight Comparison Chart

• Make a chart or working model showing how much someone would weigh on each planet.

51. Solar System Map Board with Magnets

• Use magnetic planets that can be moved across a whiteboard with orbit paths marked.

51. Constellation and Solar System Combo Poster

• Show both constellations and planets together to teach kids how stars and planets differ.

51. Revolving Globe with Solar System Surrounding It

• Build a spinning globe in the center, and attach small models of planets around it with wires.

Materials Required for Solar System Projects

Here’s a list of materials you may need for most of the projects listed above. You don’t need all of these – pick what’s needed based on your idea:

• Styrofoam balls
• Paints and brushes
• Cardboard sheets
• Thermocol sheets or scrapboards
• Clay or playdough
• Glue and stickers
• Wooden skewers or wires
• Small beads, LEDs, thread
• Printable solar system templates

You can get creative and even use recyclable items like bottle caps, old CDs, paper rolls, and unused craft scraps.

Tips for Making an Impressive Solar System Project

• Use bright colors: Kids and teachers both love visual appeal.
• Label clearly: Name each planet in a readable font.
• Use realistic sizes: Even if not perfect, maintaining the size difference among planets makes it look more real.
• Add facts: Write a small point like “Jupiter is the largest planet” or “Venus is hottest” next to each model.
• Make it interactive: Use small moving parts like gears, spinners, or buttons.
• Safety first: Use child-safe glue, paints, and avoid small parts for young kids.

Also read: Capstone Project Ideas

Conclusion

Solar system projects offer a beautiful way to combine science with art and imagination. These hands-on models and activities help students understand not only where the planets are but also how vast and exciting our universe is. Whether your student is 5 or 15, you’ll find a solar system project idea that is fun, educational, and perfect for their age.

Let your imagination explore as wide as space itself. The planets are waiting for you to build them!

✅ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the easiest solar system project for kids?

For young kids, the easiest project is a paper plate solar system. All you need are colors, scissors, paper, and a plate. Super simple and fun!

2. How can I make a 3D model of the solar system at home?

You can use styrofoam balls of different sizes, paint them, and attach them to sticks or wires. Place them on cardboard and label each one.

3. What materials are commonly used in solar system projects?

Common materials include cardboard, clay, glue, paints, paper, styrofoam, beads, and string. You can also use digital tools for AR or 3D projects.

4. What is a good solar system project for a science fair?

An LED-lit rotating solar system model would be great for a science fair. It looks creative and teaches how rotation and revolution work.

5. How can I show the motion of the planets in a project?

You can use a battery-powered motor or manual gear setup to make planets rotate around the Sun.

6. Can I make a solar system using only recycled materials?

Yes! You can use old CDs, bottle caps, paper rolls, and cardboard to build a planet model. It’s eco-friendly and budget-friendly too.

7. What is the best project for high school students?

High school students can make an Arduino-controlled solar system, a scale model showing distance, or a planet surface simulation.

8. How do I present my solar system project in class?

Keep it simple—show the Sun in the center, planets in order, and add facts. Practice explaining each part and answer questions confidently!

9. Are there any edible solar system projects?

Yes! You can make a solar system cake or cupcakes, using icing and colored toppings to represent planets.

10. Where can I find printable solar system templates?

You can find free printable solar system diagrams and templates on science education websites or by searching for “solar system printable PDF.”