Interactive science modes

Explore the solar system with interactive educational tools for understanding scale, eclipses, orbital mechanics, and gravitational influence

We're thrilled to introduce a collection of interactive science modes designed to deepen your understanding of our solar system. These premium tools transform We Are Small from a visualization into an educational playground.

Scale Comparison

Ever wondered how truly enormous Jupiter is compared to Earth? Our Scale Comparison mode places planets side by side at their actual relative sizes. Zoom in, rotate, and see the dramatic scale differences that are impossible to grasp from traditional diagrams. Watch a tiny Earth dwarfed by Saturn's rings or see how many Earths could fit inside our sun.

Eclipse Simulator

Witness one of nature's most awe-inspiring phenomena. The Eclipse Simulator lets you watch solar eclipses and lunar eclipses unfold in real-time, showing exactly how the moon's shadow races across Earth or how Earth's shadow engulfs our moon. Adjust the date and location to see historical and future eclipse events from around the world.

Orbital Mechanics Visualization

Understand the invisible forces governing planetary motion. This mode illustrates how orbital velocity, gravitational pull, and distance combine to keep planets in their precise paths. See the relationship between a planet's distance from the sun and its orbital speed, and grasp why Mercury moves so much faster than Neptune.

Day/Night Terminator

Explore the boundary between day and night on any celestial body. The Terminator visualization shows how sunlight interacts with planetary atmospheres and surfaces, revealing the thin line that separates light from darkness across the solar system. Perfect for understanding atmospheric optics and the geometry of planetary lighting.

Gravitational Influence (Hill Sphere)

Discover each planet's sphere of gravitational dominance. The Hill Sphere visualization reveals the region around each planet where its gravity overcomes the sun's, explaining why planets retain their moons and how planetary systems remain stable. See how massive planets like Jupiter command vast zones while smaller bodies like Mars have more modest spheres of influence.

All interactive science modes are premium features available to We Are Small subscribers. Start exploring today.