THE UNIVERSE

NASA Explores
http://www.nasaexplores.com/
(Blue Web’n Award)

Each week, teachers can access free weekly printable and downloadable articles and lesson plans about current NASA projects. There are loads of topics covered, from general astronomy to the specifics of space travel, with questions that draw upon math, geography, and technology. Materials are adapted to three reading levels: K–4, 5–8, 9–12.

Planetary Photojournal
http://photojournal.jpl.nasa.gov/index.html
(Scientific American Sci/Tech award)

The scientists at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory have been creating a photo album of the entire universe. View the planets in glorious detail or look through the Hubble telescope at nebulae far beyond our galaxy. Take in a video of Mars robotic rovers or catch the latest news in space surveillance technology. Especially awe-inspiring is the Solar System Simulator, which permits visitors to view celestial bodies in a variety of perspectives: from above or below, or from an orbiting spacecraft or another planet.
(This site uses Flash.)

Hubble Heritage Project
http://heritage.stsci.edu/
(International Center for Photography Infinity Award)

This site makes the most of what Hubble has to offer, with a gallery of gorgeous images, plus other art inspired by them. It also links to astronomy background resources, the news desk of Hubblesite.org. and, of course, the current month's featured image.

Amazing Space
http://amazing-space.stsci.edu/
(ENC Digital Dozen Award)

At this site, students can use Web-based activities to learn about the solar system, train to be a scientist, follow a star's life cycle, and more. Click on "For Educators and Developers" to access interactive activities, science-content reading selections, and answers to astronomy basics. There’s also helpful information on developing and funding education/public-outreach programs.
(This site uses Flash.)

The Nine Planets
http://www.seds.org/billa/tnp/
(ENC Digital Dozen Award)

No site reviews the history, mythology, and current scientific knowledge of our own solar system quite like this one. Clearly written text, large pictures, and, in some cases, audio and video, lead visitors on a variety of tours through our solar system and others. A glossary, ample related links, and a section on spacecraft help fill in any blanks.
(This site uses QuickTime.)