Educator Guide: Puffy Planets and Synthetic Cells

Jupiter-sized planets with the density of cotton candy orbit distant stars. Learn how researchers use light-related data from their stars to reveal the size and mass of orbiting exoplanets. Answer questions about density and discuss how our limited data unlock secrets of worlds beyond Earth.

In this lesson, students will learn about the SpudCell, a scientific model that is a step toward creating synthetic life. Students will compare and contrast non-living SpudCells with living animal cells. Then, they will explore what it means to be alive and the importance of scientific models in research.