On Friday, August 16, Ozark Regional Transit (ORT) and the Springdale Public Library launched an out-of-this-world event: the “Solar System Adventure.” This unique experience will bring the wonders of our solar system right to the streets of Northeast Springdale, inviting the community to embark on an educational journey across the stars—right from their own neighborhood. Click for solar system adventure ORT website.
As part of this cosmic adventure, a two-mile, scale model of the solar system will be unveiled, stretching across key locations in Northeast Springdale. The journey begins at the Springdale Public Library, where a stunning three-dimensional representation of the Sun, crafted by the talented students of the Archer Alternative Learning Center, is prominently displayed in the library’s front seating area. Visitors can also find two-dimensional representations of Mercury and Venus thoughtfully placed in the ‘Local History’ and ‘Kid’s Non-Fiction’ sections, respectively, marking the start of this stellar voyage.
But the adventure doesn’t stop there. Step outside the library, and you’ll find Earth—followed by the rest of the planets in our solar system—displayed along ORT’s existing bus routes. Each planet is represented with a two-dimensional rendition, complete with QR codes that link to more information, allowing explorers of all ages to delve deeper into the mysteries of space. These planetary markers are placed at scaled distances to reflect the actual orbits of the planets, creating a truly immersive experience as you travel from one bus stop to the next. The journey culminates at the Jones Center on Emma Ave., where the dwarf planet Pluto is represented.
In the coming months, the library will host organized solar system-related and other space-faring activities, ensuring that the “Solar System Adventure” is just the beginning of your journey through the stars.
So, download your solar adventure map, head to the Springdale Public Library, and prepare to be amazed as you experience the vast distances and wonders of our solar neighborhood. Tools and maps to help you find each planet will be available on ORT’s website at www.ozark.org/solarsystemadventure
Don’t miss this chance to explore the universe—one bus stop at a time!
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