Jupiter Model Ideas

Reference Photos

• Collect computer color-enhanced images of Jupiter from the Hubble Space Telescope and various space probes equipped with infrared, ultraviolet and visible light cameras. Get the pictures from library books or from Internet websites such as NASA's National Space Science Data Center. Study the reference photos for ideas on visual representations of Jupiter's banded cloud layers and swirling, hurricane-like storms. Pay special attention to the structure of the Great Red Spot, Red Spot Jr., and the various white circular storm systems.

Papier Mache

• Construct a papier mache Jupiter model. Blow up a large balloon. Tear up newspaper into small strips. Mix up a paste of half flour and half water. Dip the paper in the paste and cover the balloon. Smooth out the paper. Cover the balloon with a second layer, leaving an opening at the top. Use orange tissue paper for the third layer. Let the globe dry for two days. Pop the balloon and pull it through the hole, then attach a paper clip with string to hang up the model.

Styrofoam

• Buy a large styrofoam ball at a crafts store. Cut a length of wire. Bend one end into a hook and insert the wire into the ball for a hanger. For a larger model, build an armature of heavy wire or curved pieces of sheet metal. Braze or weld the frame together. Attach a hook or screw eye at the top. Cover the frame with cut sheets of thin, flexible styrofoam insulation. Spray expanding foam from cans over the sphere. Sand the model until it's smooth.

Painting

• Use your reference photos to paint the model with fast-drying acrylics. Mix up tones and tints of orange, red, yellow, and white to match Jupiter's colors. Paint distinct bands and zones of alternating colors to represent Jupiter's cloud layers. Overlay the broad bands of color with painted atmospheric details. Tint the white bands with orange or yellow to suggest Jupiter's upper atmosphere. Swirl thick patches of paint for the Red Spot and other giant storm systems.