Arcs to Auroras

Arcs to Auroras How does Earth’s magnetic field protect us? Earth’s magnetic field shields our planet from energetic particles streaming from the Sun and the galaxy, and stops the solar wind from stripping away the water in our atmosphere. Discover how the shimmering auroras form and why our invisible magnetic shield matters so much for life on Earth. Produced by Rice University for ePlanetarium’s Discovery Dome.

Show type

Astronomy / Physics Duration: 23 min Upper KS2 – KS5 / Families / Adults

What audiences take away from Arcs to Auroras

Format360° fulldome film in our mobile planetarium
Running time23 minutes
Suitable forUpper KS2–KS5, Families, Adults
SubjectsAstronomy, Physics
  • Earth’s magnetic field and the solar wind
  • How auroras form
  • Why the magnetic field protects our atmosphere

Curriculum links

Earth and spaceMagnetismKS2–KS5

Frequently asked questions

What age is Arcs to Auroras suitable for?

Arcs to Auroras is suitable for Upper KS2–KS5, Families, Adults. Tell us your year groups and we will check it is the right fit, or suggest an alternative.

How long is Arcs to Auroras?

The film runs for about 23 minutes. Most schools book it as part of a 45–60 minute session with a live, presenter-led introduction and time for questions.

Can we combine Arcs to Auroras with a live astronomer show?

Yes. Book it as our 2-in-1 performance: a live, presenter-led tour of tonight’s real night sky, followed by Arcs to Auroras and a Q&A.

Book Arcs to Auroras

Tell us your date, year groups and numbers, and we will send a quote. We cover the whole UK.

Get a quoteCall 0800 3118 360