What is the difference between the two planet programs, Zippy’s Great Solar System Adventure and Worlds of Wonder?

While at first glance these two programs may appear to cover the same topics and be for about the same grade levels, they are actually very dissimilar programs that utilize two distinct and different methods to present their topics.

Zippy’s Great Solar System Adventure (“Zippy”) is a direct study of the planets in order from the Sun, presented by a first-person point of view.  Each planet is discussed individually, including surface conditions and atmospheres.  Further, the program begins with a brief discussion of the Sun.  Only Earth’s Moon and the Galilean Moons around Jupiter are introduced as being other “worlds” in our Solar System – asteroids, comets, and other Moons are not discussed.  While there is a small mention of the Apollo missions to the Moon, no other space exploration program is mentioned.

Worlds of Wonder (“Worlds”) addresses all the worlds in our Solar System – planets, moons, asteroids, meteorites, and comets.  Planets are not studied on an individual basis, but rather characteristics and similarities that may be found among the members of our Solar System are considered.  Formation of the Solar System and space exploration missions are introduced.

Which show would you recommend to a particular group?

 These programs are not related to each other, nor designed to overlap in content.  “Zippy” is designed for groups and teachers who want a specific discussion of the planets.  “Worlds” is designed for groups interested in an overview of our Solar System, gaining an appreciation of its many types of objects.  The following scenarios may be useful in choosing between the two (Note:  this comparison assumes an interest only in these two shows.  Other programs at the planetarium may be more appropriate where indicated):
 

Comparison between "Zippy" and "Worlds"

Classroom Plan	Program
Just beginning a study of the planets.	"Zippy"
Just finished studying the planets.	"Zippy"
Just finished studying the planets and will begin studying other Solar System objects.	"Worlds"
Just finished studying the Solar System as a whole.	"Worlds"
Class is studying Earth science or geology and would like a comparison of Earth to other planets.	"Zippy"
Class is studying Earth science or geology and would like to understand Earth’s place in the Solar System. (Other programs available.)	"Worlds"
Class is studying physical science or astronomy in general. (Other programs available.)	"Worlds"
Class not studying a related topic, but wants to enjoy the planetarium experience. (Other programs available.)	"Worlds"

Ideally, I would recommend “Zippy” to a class at the completion of their study of the planets, and then have that same class return later to enjoy “Worlds” when they have completed their entire study of the Solar System.

(Note:  "Zippy" makes no reference to the age of the Solar System nor its formation, whereas "Worlds" does.)

Which program is the most advanced?

Both programs are designed for fourth grade students and above.  However, despite its first-person point of view from a talking light particle, Zippy’s Great Solar System Adventure contains more direct information than Worlds of Wonder.  In addition, “Zippy” is approximately 10 minutes longer than “Worlds” (although part of that time is in Zippy’s goodbye and the trip back to Earth.)

Why have two programs about the Solar System?

Actually, a third program for the fourth grade and above level about the Solar System is being planned!

Although the Heritage Planetarium offers many exciting programs on a variety of subjects, the primary topics requested of planetariums by groups are the planets and constellations (constellations are part of every program at the Heritage Planetarium).  I wanted to ensure that there would be a planet show available for many different classroom scenarios.  The third program, Planet Patrol, will be available in early 2002.
 

• Zippy's Great Solar System Adventure
• Worlds of Wonder