Secrets of the Sun

Gr 9 Up—Some of the mysteries of the sun are presented in this film, such as how the sun generates light and heat and how that energy reaches Earth. Utilizing satellite images, digital animation, and interviews with scientists, the program puts into perspective the immense scale of the sun's size and power. New spacecraft and Earth-based telescopes have given scientists the opportunity to recreate in labs what occurs in the center of the sun. Particular attention is given to the potential catastrophic effects solar storms could have on the Earth. Using a minor episode that occurred in Quebec in 2011 and piecing together details from a more major occurrence in 1859, the scientists paint a doomsday scenario in which, as a result of solar storm, the Earth is without power for as long as a decade. This fascinating look at our nearest star and cutting-edge technology will be of interest to students studying astronomy.—Ryan Henry, Daviess County Public Library, Owensboro, KY