All of these topics and more are covered in the new Snapshots of the Universe app, an app based on the writings of world-famous physicist Stephen Hawking, that explains the principles that control our universe through simple experiments right on your phone. Each interactive experiment explains some of the basic theories that govern our lives on Earth as well as the movement of the stars and planets. Select experiments also include video segments with further visual explanations by Hawking.
One of my favorite experiments is trying to build a working solar system. They only give you 4 planets, but it’s really hard! Once you think you’ve got a good thing going, one planet gets off track and you have a disaster on your hands. Notice here that one planet went beyond the point where the sun’s gravity could hold it in orbit and I had 2 more planets crash into one another. My older 2 children and I got caught up in this one for quite a while!
My daughter and I loved the one about relative motion. I won’t give away the secret, but it’s all about perspective. (Isn’t it always)?
My son and I were both intrigued by the section that discusses Einstein’s “Warped Worldview.” It shows how light doesn’t always travel in straight lines, and then you have to figure out exactly how much and how far the light “bends.”
The thing I love about this app is that you’re so focused on playing and trying to beat your own best time, that you don’t even realize that you’re learning. And if – by some chance – you feel like you aren’t learning enough, you can stop and read the detailed explanation about what’s going on and what you’re trying to achieve.
I’m often skeptical of apps that cost more than a dollar or two, but I would certainly pay $4.99 to get this app. We’ve certainly had more than $5 worth of fun!
Looks like a fun and educational app.
This sounds like something that my son would really enjoy.