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The information here is courtesy of http://usscouts.org/advance/cubscout/academics/astronomy.asp. For a PDF worksheet with the requirements, please refer to http://meritbadge.org/wiki/index.php/Cub_Scout_Astronomy.

Astronomy

The requirements listed below are taken from the Cub Scout Academics and Sports Program Guide (34299 - 2009 Printing). Requirements were revised since the previous edition - (34299B - 2006 Revision). This subject was added in 2002. Webelos Scouts that earn the Astronomy Belt Loop while a Webelos Scout also satisfy requirement 14 for the Scientist Activity Badge.

Requirements

Tiger Cubs, Cub Scouts, and Webelos Scouts may complete requirements in a family, den, pack, school, or community environment. Tiger Cubs must work with their parents or adult partners. Parents and partners do not earn loops or pins.

Astronomy Belt Loop

Complete these three requirements:

1. Set up and demonstrate how to focus a simple telescope or binoculars. (A local astronomy club may be a resource for this activity.)
2. Draw a diagram of our solar system--identify the planets and other objects.
3. Explain the following terms: planet, star, solar system, galaxy, the Milky Way, black hole, red giant, white dwarf, comet, meteor, moon, asteroid, star map, and universe.

Astronomy Academics Pin

Earn the Astronomy belt loop, and complete five of the following requirements:

1. Draw a diagram of a telescope and explain how it works.
2. Explain how to use a star map.
3. Draw and label five constellations. See if you can locate any of them in the sky using a star map.
4. Find the North Star. Explain its importance.
5. With you parent's or adult partner's permission, interview an astronomer. This person may be a professional or an amateur astronomer from a local astronomy club. Report on what you learned to your den or family.
6. Learn about careers that relate to Astronomy. Make a list of those careers. Tell your den or an adult family member what school subjects will help you get a position in those careers.
7. Visit a planetarium or a local astronomy club. Give a report on what you learned to your den.
8. Make a poster illustrating the different kinds of stars. Include a diagram showing the life cycle of a star.
9. Learn about some of the early space missions. Tell your den or family about one of them.
10. Find a news story about a recent happening related to space. Tell your den or family about this event.
11. Write a report on two famous astronomers.
12. Locate three major observatories on a map. Explain why these locations are good for astronomy.

References

Please visit our references page.