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ASSIGNMENT
Choose from the following three ….
- Download one of the satellite tracking smartphone apps: Satellite Tracker or Orbitrack Alternatively, you can use one of the Satellite tracking websites.
List 5 satellites that have passed Ireland recently. Post this on the discussion and talk about what these satellites are doing (150 words). - Study the EO BROWSER ‘step by step’ guide AND the EO Browser Tutorial, give an ‘elevator pitch ‘ on the EO Browser to a colleague who never heard of it and discuss how you would use it in class (150 words)
- Download the Teacher Guide & Pupil Activities for the ESA Resource ‘ Nose High Up in The Sky, carry out the pupil activities yourself and post your thoughts on the resource and if you would use it in class. (150 words)
Please also comment on at least one other participant’s post
- Download one of the satellite tracking smartphone apps: Satellite Tracker or Orbitrack Alternatively, you can use one of the Satellite tracking websites.
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Thousands of satellites pass over all of the time, these are the four I have chosen from the app Satellite tracker.
1. International Space Station: Scientific research and technology demonstrations
2. Sentinel-2A European Union / ESA:Land imaging and environmental monitoring
3. Sentinel-3A European Union / ESA Ocean: land and atmospheric monitoring
4. NOAA-2 NOAA / NASA:Weather forecasting and environmental monitoring
5. Starlink satellite SpaceX :Global satellite internet service-
Irene
I had no idea the number of Satellites passing over IReland at any one time. The website was so interesting and the absolute magnitude of the number of satelittes was mind blowing! I have to say it became a bit addictive to click on the satelittes and see where they orginated from and how long they have been in orbit as well as what they do up there.
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I had no idea that many satellites were passing over Ireland. I know that class would absolutely love monitoring them and seeing what each one does. I’m hooked myself. It’s shown me how very little I know about space and what is going on above us. I think using the websites mentioned above to track various satellites would be a great activity for the pupils. Each group could be given a different satellite to track and monitor what they see daily/weekly.
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I am the same, I did not realise so many satellites pass over Ireland so often. It is very interesting and like you mentioned Sean a it is a bit mind blowing to see so many. I thought the same also that it can be an addictive website, 20 minutes passed by and I’m still playing around with the website.
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Thanks Irene, it’s amazing to see how many satellites are passing over us at any time. Being able to use these websites to explain to the children the purposes of these satellites is great – not saying they are “up there” without being able to explain their purposes. This is a resource I can see myself using with the children during ipad or laptop time.
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I had no idea just how many satellites are passing over Ireland at any given time. I found the website fascinating, and the sheer number of satellites in orbit was incredible. I quickly became engrossed in exploring each one, discovering where it came from, how long it had been in orbit, and the different purposes it serves. It really highlighted how much satellite technology is involved in our everyday lives, often without us even realising it.
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I had no idea the amount of satellites that are in constant orbit and certainly no idea the amount passing Ireland daily. I downloaded the satellite tracker app on my phone and it’s addictive looking at them all and seeing the mission they are on. I can certainly envisage classes getting hooked and making notes about missions. They could make posters of each satellite that passes Ireland for display.
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I agree Heather, you could lose hours of your day watching the app. I had no idea so many were in orbit (or the fact that so many are now redundant). I definitely think there is great scope here for a really informative and engaging lesson. I think it brings the concept of space into the classroom in a tangible way for kids. I’ll definitely be bringing these apps into school in September.
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1. International Space Station: Scientific research and technology demonstrations
2. Sentinel-2A European Union / ESA:Land imaging and environmental monitoring
3. Sentinel-3A European Union / ESA Ocean: land and atmospheric monitoring
4. NOAA-2 NOAA / NASA:Weather forecasting and environmental monitoring
5. Starlink satellite SpaceX :Global satellite internet service -
Satellite tracking website:
- International Space Station (14 July 2026) This station is a crewed research lab where astronauts carry out science experiments.
- Sentinel-2A (14 July 2026) This is part of a European Space Agency programme and captures detailed images to monitor forests, agriculture, water quality and climate change.
- NOAA-19 (14 July 2026). This collects data for weather forecasts and climate monitoring.
- Terra (14 July 2026). This is a NASA satellite which studies land, oceans and atmosphere to improve our understanding of environmental change.
- Starlink satellite (14 July 2026) These satellites provide broadband internet coverage especially in remote areas.
It’s interesting how many different satellites pass us regularily and all the diverse uses they have.
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I used a satellite tracking app to track satellites which recently passed over Ireland. Five satellites were ISS, Sentinel-2A, Sentinel-2B, Starlink-3500 and NOAA-20.
The ISS is a research laboratory where astronauts carry out experiments. Sentinel-2A and Sentinel-2B monitor forests, crops, water quality and effects of natural disasters. These are European space satellites. Starlink-3500 is from Space X. This provides internet technology around the world especially in remote spots. NOAA-20 is a weather satellite that observes clouds, storms, temperatures and climate.
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Irene, this is absolutely fascinating! I think the children would be in awe of this. It reminds me of the Flight Radar website which I also came across recently, where the children can track flights and flight times from one country to another, and can be integrated with so many subjects e.g. geography, maths etc.
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Satellite Tracker: 5 satellites that pass over Ireland regularly. These are doing polar orbits.
The ISS is circling the planet every 90 minutes. It observes features, atmospheric phenomena and natural disasters in detail, and how space radiation affects material durability, how organisms adapt, and examines phenomena such as neutron stars and black holes.
Cosmos 1844: Currently inactive, orbits the Earth as a derelict object. Launched in May 1987, it belongs to the Tselina-2 series designed to intercept, map, and analyze military and civilian radio transmissions on Earth.
Spacemobile-002: Is part of a constellation built by <span data-copy-service-computed-style=”font-family: "Google Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 700; margin: 0px; text-decoration: none; border-bottom: 0px rgb(10, 10, 10);”>AST SpaceMobile</span><span data-copy-service-computed-style=”font-family: "Google Sans", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 400; margin: 0px; text-decoration: none; border-bottom: 0px rgb(10, 10, 10);”> designed to deliver direct-to-device cellular broadband.</span>
Intercosmos 25: Currently inactive. Was a 1991 uncrewed international scientific satellite mission. Its primary goal was to study the dynamics of electron beams in unconfined plasma and how streams of charged particles interact with the Earth’s ionosphere and magnetosphere.
Okeon O: Used to monitor sea surface temperatures, map ice conditions in arctic regions, forecast the weather, monitor ecology and phytoplankton, and map geological structures.
The inactive satellites are monitored in case of collision with other space objects.
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Irene,
I found it fascinating how fast some of the satellites travel and how often they pass over us. I think that the children would love to monitor the satellites and investigate what they do. It is amazing to watch the view of the earth from the satellite, especially these days, when our skies are so clear and practically cloud-free. I think they would find it fascinating too, like looking down from a spaceship!
Ground control to Major Tom……..
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This is such an intigueing topic for me!
International Space Station (14 July 2026): The International Space Station is a permanently inhabited laboratory orbiting Earth where astronauts conduct scientific research and experiments in a microgravity environment.
Sentinel-2A (14 July 2026): Sentinel-2A is an Earth observation satellite operated as part of the European Space Agency’s Copernicus programme.
NOAA-19 (14 July 2026): NOAA-19 is a weather satellite that gathers atmospheric and environmental data to improve weather forecasting and support long-term climate observation.
Terra (14 July 2026): Terra is a NASA Earth observation satellite that monitors the planet’s land surfaces, oceans, and atmosphere.
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For the Module 4 Elevator Pitch on Satellite Tracking, I explored the Satellite Tracker app to identify satellites that had recently passed over Ireland, including the International Space Station (ISS), Sentinel-1A, Sentinel-2A, Sentinel-3A and NOAA-20. Each satellite plays an important role in monitoring Earth, supporting scientific research, weather forecasting and tracking environmental changes such as climate change.
This activity highlighted how satellites help us better understand our planet. I would use a satellite tracking app with my 6th class pupils to spark curiosity about space and technology. Children could track the ISS, discuss the purpose of satellites and create simple fact files, integrating Science, Geography, Mathematics and Digital Technologies in an engaging, age-appropriate and get them discussing how satellites help us in everyday life.
I also explored EO Browser, an interactive platform that provides access to satellite images of Earth from different space missions. It allows users to compare images over time, making it easy to observe changes to forests, rivers, cities and weather events. A 6th class children should be able “to discover” EO browser themselves and carry out some child-led learning.
In the classroom, I would use EO Browser to investigate familiar places or natural events such as floods, storms and seasonal changes. Comparing satellite images from different dates would encourage observation, discussion and questioning while helping pupils make meaningful links between Geography, Science and environmental awareness. -
It was interesting to see the range of satellites that regularly pass over Ireland and the different purposes they serve. I hadn’t realised just how many satellites are involved in monitoring our environment and supporting everyday services such as weather forecasting and internet communication.
I also think this would be a great activity to use in the classroom. Pupils would enjoy tracking satellites in real time and learning how the information they collect helps scientists understand weather, climate and changes to our planet. It’s a great way to bring space science and STEM to life in an engaging and meaningful way.
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Here are the satellites that I discovered. I could not believe how many are in orbit!
1. STARLINK-35185 provides braodband internet to over 70 countries
2. GLOBALSTAR M053 is a communications satellite which provides the Emergency SOS on iphones currently
3.KUIPER-00493 is part of Amazon’s Project Kuiper and also is part of a consellation of broadband satellites
4. DRISHTI is an Indian satellite used for weather monitoring and environmental science
5. COSMOS 1257 is a Russian Defence Ministry satellite. It is an identifier for milatary and government space crafts.
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The satellites I discovered were as follows:
1. International Space Station: Scientific research and technology demonstrations
2. Starlink satellite SpaceX :Global an internet service
3. COSMOS 1257 is a Russian Defence Ministry satellite.
4. Okean O was a joint Ukrainian-Russian remote sensing satellite
5. Sentinel-2A European Union / ESA: This captures images of land and environmental monitoring
This module highlights the important role that space technology plays in expanding our understanding of the Earth. Prior to engaging with this module, I viewed satellites mainly as tools for weather forecasting and navigation. Throughout the module, I came to recognise that satellite data has a much broader purpose, providing valuable information that supports scientific research, environmental monitoring, disaster management, and sustainable planning. It demonstrated how advances in technology can help us better understand complex global issues and make informed decisions about the future.
One classroom resource that stood out to me was the ESA Colour Vision activity. In this lesson, pupils investigate satellite images that use different colour combinations to reveal features of the Earth’s surface that are not always visible in standard photographs. By comparing these images, children develop an understanding of how scientists use satellite technology to study forests, water systems, vegetation, and urban development. This activity naturally integrates digital technologies while promoting observation, analysis, and discussion. It encourages pupils to ask questions, identify patterns, and appreciate how technology can provide new ways of exploring our environment.
From a School Self-Evaluation (SSE) perspective, this type of learning strongly supports the development of active and inquiry-based teaching methodologies. Rather than simply receiving information, pupils are actively involved in interpreting evidence, discussing their ideas, and drawing conclusions from authentic satellite data. Working with real-world examples helps to make learning more meaningful and relevant while fostering critical thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving skills. It also provides opportunities for pupils to develop digital literacy alongside geographical understanding, reflecting many of the key principles of effective teaching and learning identified within the SSE process.
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I think you are spot on from the SSE perspective here Rachel – this is discovery learning at its finest. The children acting as geographers, historians, scientists and engineers while all the time satisfying their own curiosity. We, as teachers, merely provide the tools – they do the digging for themselves.
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Hi Sean, I found your list really interesting, especially the variety of purposes these satellites serve. I hadn’t realised that services we use every day, like the Emergency SOS feature on iPhones, rely on satellites such as GLOBALSTAR. It’s amazing to think about how satellites support communication, weather forecasting, and environmental monitoring, and I think pupils would be fascinated to learn about their everyday uses.
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<p class=”isSelectedEnd”>I was surprised by how many satellites pass over Ireland every day. Using the tracking website was really interesting, and I found myself exploring far more than I expected. I enjoyed learning where different satellites came from, how long they had been in orbit and the different jobs they perform.</p>
The activity gave me a greater appreciation of how important satellites are in everyday life. They are used for weather forecasting, climate monitoring, navigation and communication, yet most of us rarely think about them. -
It’s amazing how many satellites are actually orbiting Earth that we don’t even think about. I found it really interesting that some of these satellites are connected to everyday things we use, like internet access and emergency services on phones. I also liked seeing the link between satellites and environmental monitoring, as it shows how technology helps us understand our planet. This would definitely be a great activity to spark children’s curiosity about space and STEM.
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I really like the activities in the Nose Up High resource booklet.
In activity one a teacher could generate interest in the weather by discussing different weather proverbs. This generated discussion can be a great introduction to the topic of the weather. I teach in a rural setting so we can discuss why the weather is so important to us as individuals and to different people in the locality. I would then break the class into groups and ask them to identify different proverbs and present them back to the class. I would finish up with a class discussion on the different proverbs and whether we think they are valid.
Activity 2 is a great lesson that so simple but so effective. It allows children to interpret the weather themselves by using their different senses. In classroom setting we can identify the different senses we use to analyse the weather. It is also a nice way to introduce new language to the students. I would then look at the forecast and create a discussion with the children if it was accurate.
Activity 3 is a great activity following on from 1 and 2 that the whole class will enjoy. I really like the fact that following on from 2, we are now showing the class how to analyse the weather and have real life data to discuss. I really like the progression from activity 1 to 2 to 3 and think the children will be actively engaged in the lessons.
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Hi Michael, I agree that these activities build on each other really well. I like the idea of linking the weather proverbs to your rural setting. This is great as children can make connections to their own experiences and why weather is important in their everyday life. I also like the suggestion of comparing their observations with the weather forecast as it encourages their critical thinking.
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I really enjoyed reading your post. I agree that the Nose Up High resource is well planned and that the activities build on each other in a very natural way. I liked your idea of discussing weather proverbs, especially because they encourage children to think about how weather affects everyday life. Your point about teaching in a rural setting makes the activities even more meaningful.
Next year I will be teaching Second Class, and I think these activities would work really well with my class too. I especially like Activity 2 because it encourages children to use their senses to observe the weather. I think this would help to develop their observation and communication skills. I would also enjoy using Activity 3 to compare our own weather observations with the weather forecast and discuss any differences. Overall, I think these activities are practical, engaging and easy to adapt for younger children while encouraging curiosity and discussion about the world around them.
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I really enjoyed reading your post. I agree that the progression through the three activities is one of the strengths of the resource. I also liked your idea of using weather proverbs to introduce the topic, as it would be a great way to spark discussion and get pupils thinking about their own experiences. The activities are practical and engaging, and I think they give pupils plenty of opportunities to work together and develop their observation skills.
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I agree Michael. I think the children would enjoy comparing the photos from the ground with the ones taken from space. It’s a really visual activity and would get them looking closely, talking about what they notice and trying to work things out for themselves. As another contributor mentioned, it would also be a nice way to bring ICT into the lesson without it feeling like a separate subject. I think it could lead to some really good conversations about how satellites help us understand the world around us.
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Question 3
Having worked through the Nose High to the Sky resource, I think it is an excellent set of lessons that helps children understand the relationship between space and Earth. It encourages pupils to explore different perspectives by comparing photographs of Earth taken from observation satellites, astronauts aboard the International Space Station, and from ground level. These comparisons help children recognise how each viewpoint provides different types of information and why they are all valuable.
I particularly like how the resource highlights the importance of satellites in monitoring our planet. Satellite images allow children to observe large-scale features such as weather systems, landscapes and changes over time, while photographs taken from the ground provide more detailed views of specific places or objects. Images captured from space also enable pupils to identify patterns, monitor environmental changes and make predictions about weather and climate.
Overall, I feel this is a worthwhile and engaging resource that promotes observation, critical thinking and scientific inquiry. I would definitely use it in my classroom to develop pupils’ understanding of Earth, space and the important role that satellite technology plays in our everyday lives.
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Hi Edwina,
I agree with your thoughts on the Nose High to the Sky resource. I also think it is a really engaging way to help children understand the connection between Earth and space. Comparing images taken from satellites, astronauts on the International Space Station, and from the ground is a great idea because it shows children that we can learn different things depending on where the picture is taken.
I also liked how the resource explains the importance of satellites in a simple way. Before completing this module, I did not realise how much we rely on satellites for things like weather forecasting, monitoring the environment, and even helping during natural disasters. It makes the learning feel relevant to everyday life.
I think the activities would encourage children to ask questions, make observations, and think critically about the world around them. They also provide good opportunities for discussion and group work in the classroom.
Like you, I would definitely use this resource in my own classroom. I think it would make learning about Earth and space more interesting and enjoyable while helping pupils develop important scientific skills. -
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I really like your point about comparing images from different perspectives. It’s a great way to help children understand that each view gives us different information about our world. I agree with you also that using satellite images makes learning more engaging for the children. It is definitely a resource I will use in the classroom.
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I thought the Nose Up High in the Sky resource was very engaging and practical. It is a great introduction to weather. The use of active learning encourage observation and discussion and also inquiry based learning. I particularly like how the lessons progress from their existing knowledge to making their own observations and then collecting the real data.
I teach Senior Infants. I think the resource could be adapted to suit infants or a younger class. Activity 1 could be used to introduce weather vocabulary through songs, stories and pictures/symbols for weather.
Activity 2 is great for a younger class as they can explore the weather using their own senses. I would probably develop a short weather walk around the school and encourage the children to listen, see and feel eg. does it feel cold/ hot? They could record their observations using weather symbols or drawings.
Activity 3 is probably more suited to an older class. I would adapt it by having a simple daily weather chart where children record the weather using pictures instead of numbers.
Linking the lessons overall to different songs and stories would be very beneficial.-
I also teach the younger classes and I think it is a great lesson that can be adapted for the various class levels and an opportunity for collaboration with other class levels. It is a verys interactive lesson and therefore would suit any class level. It is also a lesson that helps students to explore the topic of earth, weather and salelites in a fun way.
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Hi Eleanor (Neville)
I really liked your emphasis on adapting the activities to suit the developmental stage of your pupils and your point about building on pupils’ existing knowledge before moving on to observation and collecting real weather data. For example, your mention of a weather walk is a lovely way of encouraging children to use their senses. Your gradual progression is an excellent example of inquiry-based learning. I also agree that using songs, stories and visual symbols is an excellent way to introduce weather vocabulary. In my own teaching context, I would use a similar approach by pre-teaching key vocabulary with visual supports before moving on to practical weather observations. I have found that reducing the reading and writing component and allowing pupils to record their observations through drawings, photographs or oral discussion helps them engage more confidently while still developing their scientific enquiry skills.
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I really enjoyed reading your post. I agree that the resource could be easily adapted for younger classes, especially through outdoor learning and using the children’s senses to explore the weather. I also liked your idea of linking the activities with songs and stories, as this would make the learning even more engaging for infants. A simple daily weather chart would be a lovely way to build a routine while developing weather vocabulary and observation skills. I think these activities would fit in really well with themes of weather and seasons too.
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I spotted and looked up information on each satellite:
STARLINK- constantly in active. These are Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite operated by SpaceX. Aim is to provide broadband.
ISS – passes over Ireland all the time but as the sky is clear tonight and the next pass over is due for tonight (South East) at 1:52am and 3.26am
COSMOS 1869 is an active Russian ocean-observation satellite.
CentiSpace-1 S6 tests technologies to enhance global navigation satellite systems.
Okean O was a joint Ukrainian-Russian remote sensing satellite designed for ocean observation, ecological monitoring, and weather forecasting no longer operational.
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The EO Browser is an interactive online platform that allows users to explore satellite imagery and Earth observation data from across the globe. It has been designed to be easy to use, making it an excellent educational resource for teachers and pupils, including those in primary school. Through the platform, users can view, investigate, and download satellite images of almost any location on Earth, making geography and environmental science more engaging and accessible.
The EO Browser brings together information from a number of satellite missions, including Sentinel, Landsat, and MODIS, allowing users to examine the Earth’s surface in a variety of ways. One of its most useful features is the ability to compare images taken at different times, enabling students to observe how landscapes and environments change over days, months, or even years.
The platform also provides several visualisation options, including natural colour, infrared, and false-colour imagery. These different views help users investigate features such as vegetation, water, and land use more effectively. In addition, image settings such as brightness and contrast can be adjusted to make observations clearer.
Other useful tools include the ability to measure distances and areas directly on satellite images, supporting both geographical and mathematical learning. The timelapse feature is another valuable resource, allowing users to create animations that clearly show changes in a chosen location over time.
By incorporating the EO Browser into classroom activities, teachers can provide pupils with an engaging, hands-on learning experience that develops their understanding of Earth science, geography, environmental change, and digital technologies through the use of real-world satellite data.
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Five satellites that have recently passed over Ireland are
International Space Station: this staion is a space environment research laboratory.
Sentinel-1: provides all weather, day and night radar imagery for land and ocean services.
NOAA-20: This satellite provides data for weather forecasting, extremem weather predictions and environmental monitoring.
Terra: It carries instruments that monitor Earth’s climate and environment, including the atmosphere, land, and oceans, and is crucial for understanding long-term climate changes and environmental shifts.
MetOp-B: This is a European meteorological satellite operated by EUMETSAT. It provides data on atmospheric temperature and humidity, ocean surface wind speed and direction, and data for climate monitoring and weather forecasting. -
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Resurs DK-1 is a Russian civilian remote sensing craft that was launched by a Soyuz-U rocket from Baikonur at 08:00 UT on 15 June 2006. The 6.8 tonne (with fuel) satellite carries imaging instruments to enable one-meter resolution black & white images or two-meter resolution in color. Unlike earlier missions which captured images on a film and dropped the canisters over Russia, this satellite will downlink the data over selected Russian stations. The status of natural resources, natural disasters, sea-ice conditions, and polar weather will be promptly available to national and international organizations, as well as to private commercial customers. The satellite also carries an Italian cosmic ray monitor, and a Russian instrument to identify probable electromagnetic precursors of earthquakes.(ref: https://www.n2yo.com/satellite/?s=29228)
Alos: Advanced Land Observing Satellite (ALOS), also called Daichi (a Japanese word meaning “land”), was a 3810 kg Japanese satellite launched in 2006. After five years of service, the satellite lost power and ceased communication with Earth, but remains in orbit. (ref: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Advanced_Land_Observing_Satellite )
Envisat:
Envisat (“Environmental Satellite”) is a large Earth-observing satellite which has been inactive since 2012. It was launched on 1 March 2002 aboard an Ariane 5 from the Guyana Space Centre in Kourou, French Guiana, into a Sun synchronous polar orbit at an altitude of 790 ± 10 km.
Operated by the European Space Agency (ESA), it was the world’s largest civilian Earth observation satellite.[2] Its objective was to support the continuity of European Remote-Sensing Satellite missions, providing additional observations to improve environmental studies. To accomplish the global and regional objectives of the mission, numerous scientific disciplines used the data acquired from the sensors on the satellite to study atmospheric chemistry, ozone depletion, biological oceanography, ocean temperature and colour, wind waves, hydrology (humidity, floods), agriculture and arboriculture, natural hazards, digital elevation modelling (using interferometry), monitoring of maritime traffic, atmospheric dispersion modelling (pollution), cartography and snow and ice. (ref: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Envisat )
Adeos II: ADEOS II (Advanced Earth Observing Satellite 2) was an Earth observation satellite (EOS) launched by NASDA,[2] with contributions from NASA and CNES, in December 2002.[3] and it was the successor to the 1996 mission ADEOS I. The mission ended in October 2003 after the satellite’s solar panels failed (ref: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ADEOS_II )
ISS: The International Space Station is a versatile research institute and a large observation platform in outer space for scientific research and applications. It also serves as a test centre to introduce new technologies. This permanently occupied human outpost in outer space also serves as a stepping stone for further space exploration. (ref: https://www.esa.int/Science_Exploration/Human_and_Robotic_Exploration/International_Space_Station/ISS_International_Space_Station )
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ISS: The International Space Station is a versatile research institute and a large observation platform in outer space for scientific research and applications. It also serves as a test centre to introduce new technologies. This permanently occupied human outpost in outer space also serves as a stepping stone for further space exploration.
ADEOS II (Advanced Earth Observing Satellite 2) was an Earth observation satellite (EOS) launched by NASDA,[2] with contributions from NASA and CNES, in December 2002.[3] and it was the successor to the 1996 mission ADEOS I. The mission ended in October 2003 after the satellite’s solar panels failed.
Envisat was launched as an Earth observation satellite. Its objective was to support the continuity of European Remote-Sensing Satellite missions, providing additional observations to improve environmental studies.
ALOS: Advanced Land Observing Satellite (ALOS), also called Daichi (a Japanese word meaning “land”), was a 3810 kg Japanese satellite launched in 2006. After five years of service, the satellite lost power and ceased communication with Earth, but remains in orbit.
Resurs-DK 1 satellite is mainly designed to image and transmit data on information for Earth natural resources study, data on ecology and emergency, sea surface status, ice situation, meteorological conditions in Earth polar regions, as well as to support digital data exchange between ground users. The satellite is continuously oriented towards the Earth in order to fulfill this program of Earth surface observation.
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Hi Sarah, The examples above highlight the wide range of purposes that satellites and space stations serve in advancing science and technology. The International Space Station (ISS) stands out as a permanently inhabited laboratory where astronauts conduct experiments, test new technologies, and prepare for future missions to the Moon and Mars. Earth observation satellites such as ADEOS II, Envisat, ALOS, and Resurs-DK 1 demonstrate how space-based systems contribute to monitoring our planet. They provide valuable information on climate change, natural resources, environmental conditions, weather, disasters, and land use. Although some missions, such as ADEOS II and ALOS, ended due to technical failures, the data they collected significantly improved scientific understanding and satellite technology. Together, these missions show how international collaboration and continuous innovation in space exploration benefit life on Earth by supporting environmental protection, disaster management, and sustainable resource planning while expanding humanity’s knowledge of space.
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I downloaded and worked through the ESA resource Nose Up High in the Sky . The activities were engaging and easy to follow. The resource includes three activities focused on weather observations, using the senses, and building simple weather instruments to introduce pupils to scientific data collection and the role of satellites in weather forecasting.
I completed the weather observation task of describing the temperature, wind, cloud cover and rainfall using my senses and comparing my observations with a weather forecast.
I also examined the instructions for building simple weather instruments such as a rain gauge and an anemometer. These practical tasks helped me appreciate how scientists collect reliable weather data and how satellites support weather forecasting.
The resource encourages inquiry-based learning, observation, prediction and data recording, while also developing mathematical and scientific skills. I particularly liked that it uses everyday materials, making it accessible and affordable for most classrooms.
I would definitely use this resource in class because it is hands-on, curriculum-linked and promotes active learning.
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3. Nose High Up In The Sky is a great resource that I definitely intend on using with my class in September. I think they will find this resource fun and interesting. Children will love seeing the photographs of Earth taken from Space. I think it is a great way to start the lesson. The visual resources included are great and the activity of matching the photos to the different landscapes take from the ground will be interesting. The third activity then of learning about how a satellite works and how it is different to a space station will allow for some interesting discussions in the class. It is a great lesson as it provides children with the opportunity to see different perspectives which they usually wouldn’t get to experience in other lessons. It is a great resource to get children interested in delving deeper into the topic and hopefully doing some further research.
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Module 4 explored in great detail the value of using satellites in space to collect insightful information about our planet. Before completing this module, I primarily associated satellites with capturing images of Earth and outer space. However, I now have a much deeper appreciation of the power of satellite imagery in helping us understand how our world functions and the incredible potential of modern scientific technology to address real-world challenges.
The ESA Higher Up! activity is a resource that I believe would be particularly valuable for use in the senior primary classroom. Through this activity, pupils examine photographs taken from ground level before comparing them with images captured from space. This provides a meaningful opportunity for pupils to explore how different perspectives can enhance our understanding of geographical features and human activity. It also offers an excellent opportunity to integrate ICT into the classroom, developing pupils’ investigative, observational, and problem solving skills. The activity is both engaging and interactive, encouraging pupils to examine the Earth from multiple viewpoints while highlighting the importance of photographic evidence as a valuable learning tool.
From the perspective of a School Self Evaluation (SSE) plan, this approach aligns strongly with the promotion of active learning. Pupils remain active participants in the learning process as they use photographic evidence and technological advancements to investigate, question, and construct their own understanding. By analysing and interpreting satellite images, pupils are encouraged to think critically, make informed observations, and draw their own conclusions. The use of authentic, real world images also provides meaningful context and familiarity, helping to create engaging and relevant learning experiences while fostering inquiry based learning and higher order thinking skills.
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Niamh, I really enjoyed reading your reflection. Like you, I had previously thought of satellites mainly as tools for taking images, but this module highlighted how valuable they are for monitoring environmental changes, supporting disaster management, and helping us better understand our planet.
I also agree that the ESA Higher Up activity is very well suited to the senior primary classroom. Comparing ground-level photographs with satellite imagery is an engaging way to develop pupils’ geographical awareness while strengthening observation and critical thinking skills. I particularly liked your connection to School Self-Evaluation and active learning. Using authentic satellite images encourages pupils to investigate, ask questions, and justify their conclusions using evidence rather than simply learning facts. It also creates excellent opportunities for integrating Geography, Science, and Digital Learning in a meaningful and engaging way.
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Hi Niamh,
Welcome to the course. It is great to hear your feedback on the resource in this module. Having used it with my own class, they really enjoyed working with the satellite images and comparing the different images. It allowed for lots of discussion and critical thinking. As you have outlined, this approach allows for active and playful learning opportunities which is part of the new STEM and SEE curriculum. Thanks for sharing your feedback and thoughts on school self evaluation.
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I used the app Satellite tracker and choose these five. Absolutely wild that there are so many!
1. BEESAT – Berlin Experimental and Educational Satellite.
2. CAMSATXW-3 (CAS-9) – Chinese Amateur Radio satellite.
3. ALTAIR – Earth observation satellites.
4. 239ALFEROV (RS61S) – Russian 3U CubeSat nanosatellite.
5. ISS – The International Space Station.
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The EO Browser is a free online tool developed by the European Space Agency and Sentinel Hub that allows users to explore satellite imagery of the Earth. It provides access to data from the Copernicus Sentinel satellites as well as other satellite missions making it easy to view environmental changes over time. If I were giving an elevator pitch to a colleague, I would describe it as “Google Maps with live and historical satellite data that helps us investigate real-world environmental issues.”
Some of the satellites that have passed over Ireland recently are;
1. International Space Station: Scientific research and technology demonstrations
2. Starlink satellite SpaceX :Global satellite internet service
3. 239ALFEROV (RS61S) – Russian 3U CubeSat nanosatellite.
4. NOAA-2 NOAA / NASA : Weather forecasting and environmental monitoring
5. Sentinel-2A European Union / ESA:Land imaging and environmental monitoringFinally, In the classroom, I would use EO Browser to support inquiry-based learning in Geography and Science. Students could investigate topics such as deforestation, flooding, urban growth, wildfires, or climate change by comparing satellite images from different dates. It encourages observation, critical thinking, and the interpretation of real scientific data. The platform is user-friendly, visually engaging, and provides an excellent way to connect classroom learning with current environmental issues, making abstract concepts much more meaningful for students.
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Hi Diarmaid,
I really like your elevator pitch for EO Browser. It is a very accessible way to explain the tool to a colleague who may not have used it before, and it immediately communicates its classroom potential.
Your ideas for using the software in class are very strong too. You could begin by choosing a topic that your class is particularly interested in exploring. As you mentioned, the software allows pupils to work with real satellite data while developing observation, comparison and critical thinking skills.
I particularly like your point about comparing images from different dates, as this would help pupils see environmental change over time in a very visual and meaningful way. It might also be useful to begin with a local example, such as looking at changes in land use, coastline or flooding in an area familiar to the pupils. This would allow them to connect the satellite imagery with their own real-world knowledge and experience.
Thank you for taking the time to share your ideas.
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Hi Diarmaid, I thought your description of the EO browser as “Google Maps with live and historical satellite data that helps us investigate real-world environmental issues” was really concise and accurate. It’s a fantastic resource and one I hadn’t come across before. I think at times I can forget the power of the internet and the learning opportunities that are at our fingertips (for ourselves as well as for the pupils). I think this a great resource and one that would be a superb springboard for loads of lessons.
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I really enjoyed working through the Nose High Up in the Sky activities. The resource is practical, engaging and encourages pupils to think like scientists by making observations, asking questions and investigating the world around them. I liked that the activities are hands-on and easy to follow, making them suitable for a range of ages.
I would use this resource with my class, particularly as part of a Science unit on air quality, weather or the environment. The activities would also link well with Geography and SPHE by encouraging children to think about how their surroundings affect their health and wellbeing. I think they would enjoy collecting information and comparing their observations, as it gives them ownership of the learning.
One of the strengths of the resource is that it encourages discussion and curiosity rather than simply giving them the facts. It would also be easy to extend the activities by asking the children to investigate different locations around the school or local area and compare their findings.
The use of digital technology here could be very useful such as simple air quality maps or satellite images, so that the children can compare their own observations with real data. I also think a follow-up activity where they can create an action plan to improve their local environment would make the learning even more meaningful. -
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For this module I chose to do option number one as my assignment. I downloaded the Satellite Tracker app to my phone. It’s a pity that there is a charge for these apps as we have iPads in school and the app would be great to install on them if it were free to do so.
After using the app and becoming a little more familiar with it, I can not believe the amount of satellites orbiting our planet at every minute of the day. There are so many orbiting Ireland that I had no idea about – crazy!
Here are five that have orbited Ireland recently according to the app….
1. LARES – this is a passive satellite system covered in laser retroreflectors. It continuously reflects laser pulses beamed from Earth, allowing scientists to track its precise location. This is used to test Einstein’s Theory of General Relativity and improve measurements of Earth’s gravitational field.
2. Cosmos 2541 – this is a Russian military early-warning satellite designed to detect ballistic missile launches and transmit that data in real-time to Russian defense command centres.
3. Gosat (IBUKI) – this is the world’s first satellite dedicated to monitoring greenhouse gases from space. It actively measures the concentrations of carbon dioxide and methane across the globe.
4. Starlink -2156 – this is an actove, low-Earth orbit communications satellite that provides high-speed, low-latency internet to homes, businesses, mobile users and remote locations.
5. Tianquin 1/CAS-6 – this is a satellite that functions as a dual-purpose technology and educational spacecraft. It was launched in December 2019. It is primarily operating as a technology demonstrator and an amateur radio satellite.
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There are so many satellites but here are five examples of satellites orbiting Ireland recently:
International Space Station (ISS) – This helps scientists understand how humans can live and work in space.
Starlink Satellite – These provide high-speed internet access, especially in rural and remote areas where traditional broadband is limited.
Sentinel-3 – This European Earth observation satellite monitors the oceans, land, and atmosphere.
NOAA-19 – This weather satellite collects information about clouds, storms, temperatures, and atmospheric conditions.
Terra – Terra is a NASA Earth observation satellite that studies the Earth’s environment. -
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I really enjoyed working through the Nose Up High in the Sky resource. I thought it was very engaging and gave children plenty of opportunities to develop observation and inquiry skills through practical activities. I particularly liked how the lessons encouraged pupils to compare photographs of Earth taken from space with images taken on the ground. It helps children understand how satellites are used to monitor weather, climate and changes to our environment in a way that is easy to understand.
I would definitely use this resource in my classroom, particularly with middle and senior classes. The activities encourage discussion, prediction and teamwork while linking well with Geography, Science and STEM. I also liked that pupils are encouraged to collect and interpret information rather than simply being given the answers.
To extend the learning, I would ask pupils to research how satellites help us in everyday life, such as forecasting the weather or monitoring natural disasters. They could then present their findings to the class or create a poster explaining the importance of satellite technology. Overall, I found this to be a well-structured and engaging resource that promotes curiosity, critical thinking and real-world learning.
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I agree with your points, especially about how the resource encourages children to investigate and discover information for themselves rather than just being told the answers. I also like your idea of having pupils research how satellites are used in everyday life, as it helps them make real-world connections. It seems like a great way to combine Science, Geography, and STEM in an engaging and meaningful way.
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I have to admit before engaging with this module I literally had no idea so many satellites passed over Ireland on a daily basis! I had obviously heard of the International Space Station and one or two others but it was fascinating to learn about so many others. I could honestly have spent hours looking them up and I really think my 6th class pupils would engage with this lesson really well.
I used a satellite tracking website to identify satellites that have recently passed over Ireland. Some examples are the International Space Station (ISS), Hubble Space Telescope, NOAA-20, Landsat 8, and a Starlink satellite. These satellites all have different missions.
The ISS is a research laboratory where astronauts conduct experiments in science, medicine, and technology.
Hubble observes distant galaxies, stars, and planets, helping scientists understand the universe.
NOAA-20 is a weather satellite that collects data used for weather forecasting and monitoring climate conditions.
Landsat 8 takes detailed images of Earth’s surface, which are used to study forests, agriculture, water resources, and environmental changes.
Starlink satellites are part of a large communication network that provides high-speed internet coverage around the world, especially in remote areas.
These are obviously only the smallest fraction of the satellites that pass over Ireland each day and I’ll be keeping an eye out to try and see more going forward!-
Hi Richard,
Welcome to the course, there are so many satellites that pass over Ireland and I too have focused on the ISS with my own senior classes and next year I will focus on the other satellites that pass over on a daily basis. It is also fascinating to see the different roles each satellite has whether it is for internet, weather forecasting or images of the Earth’s surface. Like you, this is something I will look into with my own class next year, maybe during Space Week in October. Thanks for sharing, I hope you enjoy the course.
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Exploration of the EO Browser has resulted in finding it to be an interesting resource for teaching Earth and climate science. It certainly gives the opportunity to study real satellite images that can be taken from such missions as the Copernicus mission, and to analyse changes on the planet’s surface in relation to such events as floods, deforestation, urbanisation, and melting of ice.
The way I would describe the EO Browser to my colleague: “It is a platform that employs real satellite data to help pupils to see how our planet is changing.” At the lesson, I would use this resource when studying weather, climate change, and sustainable development. The pupils then would be able to compare the images of the same territory made at different periods of time and talk about what has changed.
The resource fosters inquiry learning approach and incorporates science, geography, and ICT. This is one I will definitely try.
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I honestly had no idea that that thousands of satellites orbit Ireland every day. The apps are fascinating to watch. Seeing them update in real time and the fact that these satellites can complete a full orbit of the earth in 90 minutes blew my mind! A few that were passing over Ireland were the Tiangong Space Station, METEOR-M2, The ISS, Starlink Communications Satellites and NOAA-19.
Tiangong Space Station is China’s orbiting space station, supporting long-duration astronaut missions and scientific research.
METEOR-M2 is a Russian weather satellite producing detailed Earth and weather imagery.
The ISS is permanently crewed laboratory where astronauts conduct scientific experiments in microgravity. It is one of the brightest objects visible in the night sky.
Starlink Communications Satellites are thousands of satellites providing high-speed broadband internet to homes, ships, aircraft, and remote communities worldwide.
NOAA-19 is a weather satellite monitoring storms, cloud cover, ocean temperatures, and climate conditions. -
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Satellites Recently Over Ireland
These five satellites have passed over Ireland recently.
International Space Station (ISS) – The ISS is a giant space laboratory where astronauts live and work. They carry out experiments to learn more about space and how it affects the human body.
Hubble Space Telescope – Hubble is like a giant camera in space. It takes amazing pictures of stars, planets, and galaxies far away, helping scientists learn more about our universe.
NOAA-20- This satellite is an Earth observation satellite that collects weather and climate data, helping improve weather forecasting and monitor environmental changes
Starlink – These satellites provide high-speed broadband internet around the world, particularly in rural and remote areas. Many of my friends in the West of Ireland use Starlink.
OneWeb- These satellites also deliver broadband internet services, helping improve global connectivity.
These satellites do important jobs, like taking pictures and studying Earth, to help scientists understand our world better.
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Passing over me at the moment are:
Starlink 34028
Starlink 5125
Starlink 34187
Starlink 32155
Starlink 35897These are all of Elon Musk’s satellites. They have proven useful in the Ukraine conflict especially when he denied access to Russia. because there is so much drone warfare, satellites play a huge part. GPS is vital for directing troops, artllery, missiles and drones. It’s a pity that they are being used in such a militaristic way but the defence of Ukraine is a good cause. Space is increasingly becoming a zone which the major countries and superpowers are trying to control. Satellites, space stations and moon colonies will all give greater control and power to countries on Earth, and will help with their military aims.
SpaceX, the company that made him a trillionaire, are launching the satellites, and he hopes to provide internet access to anywhere in the world. Musk has over 10,000 of these satellites in orbit. One wonders what will happen when they become obsolete. Space is becoming increasingly dangerous because of all the junk orbiting. -
I downloaded a satellite tracking app and was surprised by how many satellites pass over Ireland every day. Five that I spotted were the International Space Station, Sentinel-2A, Sentinel-1A, NOAA-20, and Starlink. The ISS is used for scientific research in space, with astronauts carrying out experiments that can’t be done on Earth. Sentinel-2A takes detailed images of the Earth’s surface to help monitor things like crops, forests, and lakes, while Sentinel-1A uses radar to track flooding and other changes, even through clouds. NOAA-20 collects weather and climate data, helping improve forecasts, and the Starlink satellites provide internet coverage in places where it’s harder to get a reliable connection. I thought it was really interesting to see how each satellite has a different job, and it made me realise just how much we rely on satellites in everyday life without even noticing them.
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I used a satellite tracking app to see what had recently passed over Ireland. Here are five satellites I found:
1. **ISS (International Space Station)** – The ISS is a space laboratory where astronauts live and carry out scientific experiments in microgravity.
2. **Starlink-3245** – This satellite is part of SpaceX’s Starlink network, which provides high-speed internet to people around the world.
3. **NOAA 19** – A weather satellite that collects information about clouds, temperatures, and storms to help improve weather forecasts.
4. **Sentinel-2A** – This Earth observation satellite takes high-resolution images of the Earth’s surface. It is used to monitor forests, agriculture, and environmental changes.
5. **COSMOS 2558** – A Russian satellite believed to be used for military observation and monitoring in orbit.I found it interesting how many different jobs satellites have. Some help us predict the weather, others provide internet access, and some are used for scientific research or Earth monitoring. Before doing this activity, I didn’t realise that so many satellites pass over Ireland every day. It really shows how important satellites have become in our everyday lives, even if we don’t usually notice them.
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1. Cosmos 1833 (NORAD ID 17589) is a Soviet ELINT (Electronic and Signals Intelligence) satellite.
2. COSMO-SkyMed 1 (CSK-1) is the first satellite of the Italian Earth Observation constellation. It is a dual-use radar imaging satellite that captures high-resolution, all-weather imagery for environmental monitoring and disaster management. It is known for its ability to see through clouds and darkness.
3. The International Space Station (ISS) – continuous international research
4. RESURS-DK No.1 is a Russian civilian remote sensing satellite built by TsSKB-Progress. Based on a military reconnaissance platform, it provided 0.9-meter resolution Earth imagery.
5. Aqua (EOS PM-1) is a NASA scientific research satellite in orbit around the Earth, studying the precipitation, evaporation, and cycling of water. -
The EO Browser is an online tool that allows you to view satellite images of the Earth. It can be used to explore different places around the world and see how they have changed over time. It is easy to use and is a great way to make geography and science lessons more interesting. I would describe it to a colleague as “Google Maps with satellite images that let you explore changes in our environment.”
Next year I will be teaching Second Class, and I think I could use the EO Browser in a simple way. I would use it to show the children where we live, look at our local area from space, and compare it with other places in Ireland and around the world. We could also look at rivers, forests and coastlines and discuss how people and nature can change the landscape. This would link well with SESE, Geography and Science while also encouraging children’s curiosity about the world.
Overall, I think the EO Browser is a very useful resource. It is visual, engaging and provides real-life examples that help children understand the world around them. I would use it alongside class discussions and simple activities to make learning fun and meaningful for my Second Class pupils.
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I like your idea of using satellite to look at rivers and coastlines and discussing how it can change the environment. Although I love all things space, I’m sorry to say I hadn’t known about a lot of mentioned websites in this module. I can’t wait to show my class a satellite tracker to show them all that pass over Ireland and the rest of Europe. EO browser I look forward to showing them too and as a senior class I think they will get a lot from it.
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Hi Linda, I like your comparison of EO Browser to “Google Maps with satellite images” as it clearly explains how accessible the tool can be for pupils. I think using it to explore the local area would be a great starting point, as children can make connections between what they see on the screen and their own surroundings. Comparing landscapes, rivers, forests, and coastlines would also encourage pupils to ask questions about how environments change over time. It would be a valuable resource for developing curiosity and linking Geography and Science in a meaningful way.
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I decided to opt for option 1 here. I have downloaded the satellite tracker for my phone.
The 1st satellite it detected is the most well know I suppose The ISS. Interestingly, the only experience I have had with tracking satellites relates to when I purchased my robotic mower 2 years ago. The quality of the cut and how accurate it was depended on which satellites were currently overhead.
This was very interesting for me and definitely an adult learning opportunity. I remember showing this to the pupils at school at the time and the majority were thrilled. We spoke about sat nav, weather predictions, running watches and fitness trackers as these we all relavent to the children’s lives.
However, I digress. the ISS is habitable and they conduct advanced scientific research in micro gravity and test new experimental space technologies.
My app also detected a Starlink broadband satellite, One of the Copernicus satellites (Sentenil 3) . It also detected a weather satellite called Meteosat.
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Hi Mark,
Welcome to the course. It is great to see you have downloaded the satellite tracker. I hadn’t realised that there was a link between the robot lawn movers and satellites overhead but you can see how the broadband satellites would link in with this also. But as you have mentioned, a learning opportunity all the same.
I have tracked the ISS with my class and watched their live feed but I hope to explore satellites a bit more during space week where some learners will check and record the satellites at the same time each day for sharing with the class.
Thanks for sharing, I hope you enjoy the course.
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Using a satellite-tracking website, I had a look at which satellites had recently flown over Ireland. I was surprised by the variety of satellites in orbit and the different purposes they serve. These are five that I found.
Sentinel-2A – An Earth observation satellite that captures detailed images of land and vegetation. It is widely used to monitor farming, forests, and changes to the environment.
NOAA 19 – This satellite gathers weather data, including cloud cover, temperatures, and storm systems, helping meteorologists produce more accurate forecasts.
COSMOS 2558 – A Russian satellite that is thought to be used for surveillance and observation from space.
ISS (International Space Station) – A permanently occupied research station orbiting Earth where astronauts conduct scientific experiments in the unique conditions of microgravity.
Starlink-3245 – One of the many satellites in SpaceX’s Starlink constellation, designed to deliver broadband internet services across the globe.
This activity gave me a better understanding of how important satellites are in everyday life. I learned that they perform many different roles, from monitoring weather and protecting the environment to providing communication services and supporting scientific research. I was also amazed by the number of satellites that pass over Ireland on a regular basis. Before using the tracking app, I hadn’t realised just how busy the skies above us really are.-
Hi Cathal, I really enjoyed reading your post. I liked how you explained the different roles of each satellite in a clear and easy-to-understand way. Your reflection shows how useful satellite tracking can be for learning about weather, communication and environmental monitoring. It certainly highlights how important space technology is in our everyday lives.
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I was also surprised by the number and variety of satellites passing over Ireland and how many different jobs they carry out. I think this activity would really capture children’s interest too, especially if they could use a tracking app to spot satellites themselves and find out what each one is used for.
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Module 4 Assignment – Satellite Tracking
For this assignment, I explored the Satellite Tracker app to identify satellites that had recently passed over Ireland. Five examples included the International Space Station (ISS), Sentinel-1A, Sentinel-2A, Sentinel-3A and NOAA-20. Each satellite has an important role in helping scientists better understand our planet. The ISS supports scientific research in space, while the Sentinel satellites monitor land, oceans, forests and the effects of climate change. NOAA-20 collects weather and environmental data that improves forecasting and helps monitor natural disasters.This activity helped me appreciate how satellites provide valuable information about Earth’s environment. I would use a satellite tracking app with my Senior Infants and First Class pupils to spark curiosity about space and technology. Pupils could track the ISS, discuss what satellites do and create simple fact files, linking Science, Geography, Mathematics and Digital Technologies in an engaging, hands-on way.
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Hi Dolores, this is really insightful. I agree that using a satellite tracking app is a fantastic way to spark children’s curiosity about space and how satellites help us in everyday life. As I will be teaching Junior Infants, I would adapt the activity by focusing on simple discussions about what satellites do and looking for the ISS, helping to introduce basic space concepts in an engaging and age-appropriate way.
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Elevator Pitch:
EO Browser is an interactive online platform that gives users access to satellite images of Earth from a range of space missions. It allows you to view how different places have changed over time by exploring images of forests, rivers, weather events, cities, and more. The platform is easy to navigate, making satellite imagery accessible for learners of all ages. It could be used with any class level, teacher led for younger classes and could be child led for the senior classes.
Using EO Browser in the Classroom:
I would use EO Browser to help children develop an understanding of the world around them through real-life examples. Pupils could examine satellite images of familiar places or investigate natural events such as floods, wildfires, or seasonal changes. Comparing images from different dates would encourage discussion, observation, and questioning while helping children make meaningful connections between geography, science, and environmental awareness. -
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I carried out the pupil activities from Nose High Up in the Sky myself, and I found the resource very clear, visual and easy to follow. The step by step structure makes it suitable for my 3rd/4th class, especially as they enjoy anything hands on and connected to the outdoors. The activities helped me think more about how clouds form and how weather changes, and I know my pupils would enjoy trying the simple investigations, particularly anything that involves observing the sky or making predictions.
Because we’re a small rural school with plenty of space outside, I can see great potential for using this resource during nature walks or outdoor science lessons. The language is accessible, and the illustrations make the concepts easier for children to grasp. I would use this in class, and I think adding a short recording sheet or a simple reflection page would make it even more useful for younger pupils. -
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Option 3:
‘Nose up in the sky’ is an excellent resource pack that I’d definitely find useful with my class. I really like how it opens with the proverbs activity – an excellent stimulus type activity that would draw children in and integrates literacy skills nicely.
The second exercise would again be great for literacy skills with a wide range of vocabulary available to be used. Analysing actual weather forecasts would be a great extension task too, especially for older classes.
The final activity would be great fun for the class and you could easily get a few days out of it, as well as plenty of mini lessons in the following weeks and months. Children would really enjoy the hands-on nature of making the weather instruments and always engage best with activities where they were involved in making the resources. -
These are the satellites I picked. It’s mind boggling how many satellites are out there!
- International Space Station (ISS). Astronauts are based here and it is permanently occupied. The station is used for carrying out scientific research. It is probably one of the most familiar satellites.
- Starlink. This is a communications satellite owned by Elon Musk. It provides broadband internet to homes, mobiles, businesses and remote areas. There are a lot of starlink operated satellites in orbit at any one time.
- EUMETSAT. This is the European operational satellite agency for monitoring weather, climate and the environment from space. Met Éireann uses the Meteosat-11 satellite.
- NOAA-20. This is a polar orbiting environmental satellite operated by NASA and NOAA. It circles the globe 14 times daily to record data for weather forecasting, hurricane tracking and climate monitoring.
- Terra Satellite. Operated by NASA, it is a climate research satellite. It observes and measures the earth’s atmosphere, lands and oceans to understand the changing impact of human activity.
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I looked at the ESA Nose Up High resource and think that it could be a great activity to do with the class. Despite having Junior Infants in September I think it would be possible to adapt this lesson to make it useable and engaging for my class. This resource entails looking at different viewpoints from which you can observe different objects and the differences between pictures taken on earth and from satellites, what rivers, lakes, mountains etc look like from space. I would use it with younger children to look at some objects or places/landmarks that they are familiar with from their local area and see how these pictures might look different especially when we look at different satellite images. We would look at pictures of lakes, rivers and mountains that we are used to seeing and then compare the similarities and differences when we see these pictures when they are taken from space.
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The international space centre has passed over Ireland- The astronauts are working in the spaceship.
Copernicus sentinel- 3- It is monitoring the Earth’s Oceans and land by measuring sea surface temperatures, ocean colour, ice cover, etc.
starlink satellite- This is the global satellite broadband internet, it relays internet traffic between users and ground stations.
Terra- This is a climate and environmental monitoring. Terra studies forests, clouds, atmospheric pollution, glacier and land temperatures. This provides long term data used by climate scientists.
NOAA-20- Weather forecasting and environmental monitoring. It collects information that is used by meteorological agencies to improve weather forecasts and monitor storms, sea ice and wildfires.
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QIANFAN-41 is a Chinese satellite designated for improving communications, broadband and relaying with ground terminal. It is not a photographing satellite.
STARLINK-3391. There are numerous Starlink satellites that pass over Ireland daily. This is one of 10756 that orbit the globe. It provides internet broadband throughout Ireland
OOV-CUBE – This is an interesting satellite. It is an experimental one used for testing new spacecraft technologies
NOAA 16 – This satellite is US built and was designated as a weather satellite. It was launched 26 years ago. It is no longer operational and has become one of the thousands of inactive satellites orbiting the globe. During a pass over Ireland it would historically have collected cloud images, atmospheric temperature and humidity profiles, and other meteorological data
CENTISPACE-1 S6 This satellite is part of China’s CentiSpace navigation and positioning system. As it flies over Ireland it is transmitting precision navigation signals and testing positioning technologies that complement satellite navigation systems such as GPS. It is not observing the ground. -
I used the OrbitTrack satellite tracking app to see which satellites had recently passed over Ireland. These are some of the satellites that showed up for me- International Space Station (ISS), Tiangong Space Station, Hubble Space Telescope, NOAA-20, and Starlink satellites. The ISS is a permanently crewed laboratory where astronauts perform scientific experiments in space. Tiangong is China’s space station, supporting research in biology, physics, and technology. The Hubble Space Telescope studies distant galaxies, stars, and planets, providing incredible images that help scientists understand the universe. NOAA-20 is an Earth observation satellite that collects weather and environmental data, improving weather forecasts and monitoring climate change. The Starlink satellites are part of SpaceX’s satellite internet network, providing broadband coverage to people in remote areas. It was interesting to see how many different types of satellites regularly pass over Ireland and how each one has an important role in communication, research, weather forecasting, or space exploration. OrbitTrack made it easy to identify these satellites and learn about their missions.
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I specifically checked which satellites passed over my home town, and these 5 were what I found.
1) The International Space Station. It has been running scientific experiments, supporting astronauts, observing Earth and testing technology.
2) Sentinel 1-A. Even at night, it monitors Ireland’s coastline for flooding, landslides and coastal movement.
3) Sentinel 2 A. This has been using high resolution cameras to photograph farmland, forests, lakes and checking on environmental changes.
4) NOAA-20. This has been collecting information on weather, sea surface temperatures and atmospheric measurements.
5). EIRSAT-1. Demonstrating Irish-built space technology, communicating with ground stations, and detecting gamma-ray bursts from deep space while orbiting Earth. -
The EO Browser is a user-friendly online platform that enables users to explore satellite imagery and Earth observation data from around the world. It is particularly valuable in education, as it allows teachers and pupils to investigate real-world geographical features using up-to-date satellite images.The platform combines data from satellite missions such as Sentinel, Landsat, and MODIS, giving users access to a range of imagery, including natural colour, infrared, and false-colour views. These visualisations help pupils identify features such as vegetation, water bodies, and land use. EO Browser also allows users to compare images from different dates, making it easy to observe environmental changes over time.
Additional tools, including distance and area measurement, image enhancement, and timelapse creation, support interactive learning across geography, science, and mathematics. Overall, EO Browser provides an engaging way to develop pupils’ understanding of environmental change while building their digital and analytical skills through authentic satellite data. -
I found the PAX video to be an excellent resource for primary school pupils. It presents information in a clear, engaging way, introduces new vocabulary appropriately, and explains complex ideas in language that children can understand. However, I felt that some of the suggested solutions to climate change were presented quite simply and could benefit from further discussion in class.
In my opinion, Activity 3 is considerably more challenging than the first two activities. It seems more appropriate for senior primary classes, as pupils would need significant teacher guidance to complete it successfully. I would introduce the lesson by pre-teaching key vocabulary, showing the video, and using a KWL discussion to activate prior knowledge. I would then model how to use the TEAL tool before explaining the activity sheet. This lesson also offers valuable opportunities for cross-curricular learning in History, Geography, and Maths by researching historical climate events and presenting collected data using graphs or pupil-designed visual displays.
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I struggled a bit navigating the app but I got on better with the website version. It makes me think that this activity would be better suited to senior classes and would be a great opportunity for utilising ICT.
1. International Space Station: Scientific research and technology demonstrations
2. Sentinel-2A European Union / ESA:Land imaging and environmental monitoring
3. Sentinel-3A European Union / ESA Ocean: land and atmospheric monitoring
4. NOAA-2 NOAA / NASA:Weather forecasting and environmental monitoring
5. Starlink satellite SpaceX :Global satellite internet serviceI did also look at the EO browser and I think my 6th class next year would definitely enjoy experimenting with this. Although I found this task the most difficult to navigate so far on this course, I can see how and why satellite gathering is so important. Children would find this fascinating to navigate and investigate which satellites were passing, however I’m not sure if I would be in my comfort zone using these resources and would need to spend more time using them myself.
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Option 1
For this assignment on Module 4, I downloaded the Satellite Tracker by Star Walk app. I had never used a satellite tracking app before, so it was interesting to see how it worked. I signed up for the 7-day free trial so I could use all of the features. It was easy to see which satellites were passing over Ireland and when they would be visible.
One satellite I found was Aqua. It collects information about Earth’s water, including clouds, rain, oceans, and ice. Scientists use this information to study weather and climate change.
Another satellite was ALOS, which takes images of Earth’s surface. It is used for mapping, monitoring forests, and helping after natural disasters such as floods and earthquakes.
I also saw Resurs-DK No. 1, which takes detailed pictures of Earth. These images are used for farming, environmental studies, and planning towns and cities.
The app also showed Tiangong, China’s space station. Astronauts live and work there while carrying out science experiments in space.
Finally, I tracked Envisat. It was used to study Earth’s land, oceans, atmosphere, and ice. Although it is no longer working, it is still orbiting Earth and can be tracked by the app.-
I found this response very interesting as it showed how satellites are used for many different reasons. I liked learning about how satellites such as Aqua, ALOS, and Envisat help us learn more about Earth, the environment, and climate change. I thought it was interesting that Envisat is no longer working but is still orbiting Earth. I also enjoyed learning about Tiangong and how astronauts carry out experiments in space. I think using a satellite tracking app would be a great classroom activity as it could help children become more interested in space and science.
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I really liked the Nose up High lesson, and I also think the children in my class would really enjoy it too. It is a very practical and hands-on lesson to explore the concept of satellites s and their purpose.
Activity 1: Activity one is a great way to introduce subjects such as the space station and some of the things that happen up there. Additionally, by looking at actual photos taken by astronauts would give the students a realistic view of Earth from space and satellites. I think I would use the photos to generate a whole class discussion about the photos taken from space.
Activity 2: This is a great activity and one that easily be adapted depending on your class level. I teacher the younger classes therefore I would use this a group work project. I would as groups to match up the photos from the satellite and earth.
Activity 3: This activity gives the students/groups to present their finding to the class and compare the opinions of the other groups. The groups can use new vocabulary to give reasons for matching the photos and others can in turn use new vocabulary learned to agree or disagree. -
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I really enjoyed this module in particular and the videos explaining Satellites and their missions, how they have a lifespan of 5 – 20 years but remain in orbit although not working anymore. I found the satellite tracker by start walk app to be brilliant and will definitely use this with my class in the upcoming school year.
I was able to find many satellites that regularly passed over Ireland and found it interesting to discover what each satellite is used for.
– International Space Stationt: Orbits Earth about every 90 minutes and is often visible from Ireland
– Noaa: A weather satellite that collects weather, climate, and environmental data that help meteorologists produce weather forecasts and monitor storms.
– Terra: A NASA Earth observation satellite that studies Earth’s atmosphere, land, oceans and climate.
– Aqua: It measures water in Earth’s atmosphere, oceans, land, and ice to improve weather forecasting and climate research.
– Starlink satellites: They work together to provide high-speed broadband internet
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From the Ground and From the Sky.
This is an excellent resource pack that kids would find fascinating.
The first activity involves initially imagining what space would look like from the ISS and then studying actual photos taken form the ISS. This lesson would invoke wonder and awe in the children and also teach them about satellites and the ISS and how satellites are doing an amazing job for mankind. This lesson could be done by all classes from 1st to 6th. The infants could share their opinions on the earth and the photos.
The 2nd and 3rd activities are somewhat similar. Children could begin the activities by discussing and matching the photos in pairs or groups. Teacher could prompt responses with questions such as what can you see in the ground photo that you can’t see in the satellite photo. After that the worksheets could be done independently. This activity could be done from 3rd to 6th classes.
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I really enjoyed this activity as I found it interesting to learn about the different satellites that I found using the tracker and how they pass over Ireland. I was surprised by how many satellites orbit Earth and the different purposes they have.
The five satellites I discovered were the International Space Station (ISS), NOAA, Terra, Aqua, and Starlink satellites. The ISS orbits Earth about every 90 minutes and allows astronauts to carry out research in space. NOAA is a weather satellite that collects information about weather, climate, and storms to help with forecasting. Terra and Aqua are NASA Earth observation satellites that study different parts of our planet, including the atmosphere, oceans, land, and climate. Starlink satellites provide high-speed internet access to people around the world.
I think this activity would be very useful in the classroom as it could help children understand how satellites are used in everyday life. It also links well with topics such as space, weather, and climate change. Overall, I found it fascinating to see how technology in space helps us learn more about our planet.
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Hi Elaine
Like you I was amazed at how many satellites are passing over us all day long. I think the children would be fascinated by this resource too. You mentioned the Starlink satellites of which there are so many. The class would be particularly interested in these, I think, when they see how they are key to high-speed internet and connectivity in remote areas and for ships and aircraft. The role of satellite information in search and rescue and managing natural disasters would also be a good topic for discussion and research in class.
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I visited the website satfleetlive.com. It’s an excellent resource for the classroom and very easy to use. The visuals are very clear. They use a 3d image of the world and every dot representing a satellite is colour coded.
These are the satellites I recorded passing Ireland yesterday morning between 7.30 and 8 am.IRIDIUM 136
This satellite provides global satellite communications for voice, text, and data.
It enables satellite phones to work almost anywhere on Earth, including oceans, deserts, and polar regions where cellular coverage doesn’t exist.
It Supports devices, allowing remote sensors, trackers, and industrial equipment to send data.
It Is used by:
Ships and aircraft
Emergency responders
Military organizations
Scientific expeditions
Remote workers (mining, oil & gas, etc.)COSMOS 2531 (RODNIK-S 17)
This is a Russian military communications satellite.
Its primary role is:
– Secure military communications for the Russian Armed Forces.
– Providing communications in remote areas where there are no terrestrial radio or cellular networks.
-Acting as a store-and-forward communications satellite: it receives digital messages, stores them while out of range of a ground station, and forwards them when it passes over the intended recipient.BEIDOU-3 M22
This is a satellite in China’s global navigation satellite system. It is China’s equivalent of the U.S. GPS, Europe’s Galileo, and Russia’s GLONASS.Its job is to provide:
Positioning (determining your location)
Navigation (guiding vehicles, ships, aircraft, smartphones, etc.)
Precise timing for telecommunications, power grids, banking, and scientific systems
Support for search-and-rescue servicesCOSMOS 2504
This is one of Russia’s more secretive military satellites. Its exact mission has never been officially disclosed.Its likely capabilities include:
Inspecting other satellites at close range.
Testing technologies for satellite servicing or rendezvous.
Conducting military space technology experiments.
Performing orbital maneuvers that are unusual for ordinary communications or navigation satellitesCHUANGXIN-3 (CX-3)
This is a Chinese experimental satellite. Officially, it was described as being used for scientific experiments and space maintenance technologies.Its mission includes
-Testing satellite servicing technologies,
-Demonstrating technologies that could one day be used for:
repairing satellites, refuelling them,removing space debris,
or assembling spacecraft in orbit.
– Some sources also describe it as carrying store-and-forward communications equipment, allowing it to receive and later relay digital message -
I chose to download the Teacher Guide & Pupil Activities for the ESA Resource ‘ Nose High Up in The Sky’. The resource has three lovely activities in it.
The first activity is based on weather proverbs. The children would really enjoy listening to the different weather proverbs and drawing their own conclusions on whether there is any truth to each of the proverbs from their own experience. They would also enjoy making the comparison between how weather is predicted now and how forecasting had to rely on human experience before the development of the technology that we use now.
The second activity follows on from the first by showing how meteorologists rely on Science now to predict the weather. It also includes the fact that we can use our senses to describe the weather. This activity could be extended to include research on how animals use their senses to predict the weather and other signs in nature that show us a certain type of weather is on its way.
The children would really enjoy the hands on learning in activity three where they can make their own anemometer to measure wind speed. This would be a lovely activity to do in small groups. The children could include the temperature, wind speed and rainfall amounts in a weekly weather diary.-
I really like the idea of extending Activity 2 to look at how animals use their senses to predict changes in the weather. I think the pupils would find that really interesting and it would make a great link to other areas of Science. The anemometer activity also sounds like great hands-on learning and would be a good opportunity for pupils to work together in small groups. I particularly like your idea of keeping a weekly weather diary as it would allow the children to collect real data and see how the weather changes over time.
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Option 1 (Satellite Tracking)
I used the app ‘Satellite Tracker’. I looked up information about the satellites. It was so interesting!
Sentinel-2A. It is part of Europe’s Copernicus programme. It’s job is to monitor forests and crops, measure droughts and floods, track wildfires and to produce detailed colour images of Earth’s surface.
Sentinel-1A. This uses radar. It can see through clouds, work day or night, detect flooding, measure small ground movements caused by natural disasters, monitor sea ice and ships.
NOAA-21. This is one of the newest weather satellites. It measures cloud temperatures, observes hurricanes and Atlantic storms, map sea surface temperatures, helps improve weather forecasts, monitors smoke, volcanic ash and also pollution.
Terra. This monitors the Earth’s movement. It has been operating since 1999 and carries instruments that study climate change, forest health, wildfires, air pollution, snow and ice cover and also ocean temperatures.
Aqua. It’s purpose is to study the Earth’s water. Aqua focuses on water vapour in the atmosphere, rainfall, clouds, ocean temperatures, sea ice and the global water cycle.
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I find the Satellite Tracker app to be an amazing resource that I knew nothing about. From the information Siobhan has given, it has defintely encouraged me to look at it. It is an engaging extra to run alongside Nose High to the Sky, and a clear way for children to see what is going on above us and how it links to our everyday lives.
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The “Nose High Up in the Sky” seems really good, I’m so glad to have found it. In my opinion students would find the resource really engaging and I think its extremely important are engaged when teaching such topics. I like that the activities are very hands-on and inquiry based. I know using this resource would encourage my students to observe, predict and investigate, helping them to develop scientific thinking skills. I will definitely use this resource with my class next year. In the past when I was teaching about weather I always found it was a topic my students enjoyed so I imagine they will really enjoy and benefit from this resource.
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From looking at the apps, I was surprised by how many satellites pass over Ireland every day. The five satellites I saw were the International Space Station (ISS), Starlink-3576, NOAA-19, Sentinel-2A, and Terra.
I already knew about the ISS, but I didn’t realise it passes over Ireland so often. It is used for science experiments in space.
Starlink-3576 helps provide internet services.
NOAA-19 collects weather information.
Sentinel-2A takes pictures of the Earth to help monitor farms, forests and the environment. Terra studies the Earth’s land, oceans and climate.
I enjoyed using the app because it showed me that satellites are always moving above us. Before this, I never really thought about how much we depend on them. They help with weather forecasts, internet, research and looking after our planet. -
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These are the satellites I found that have passed over Ireland in the last while:
1. STARLINK-36843 is used to provide broadband internet to residential, business and mobile operations around the world.
2. International Space Station is used to monitor Earth, conduct microgravity research and has a human spaceflight lab. It has four main goals-to conduct scientific research that cannot be done on Earth, carry our deep space exploration, observe space and Earth and ensures international cooperation as space agencies from all around the world are involved with it.
3. Sentinel 1A has radar imaging to monitor land, floods, ice and natural disasters.
4. Aqua is used to monitor waster cycles, atmosphere and climate observations
5. MetOp-C is the European operational weather satellite. It also monitors the oceans and ice, as well as monitoring climate and atmospheric chemistryIt’s amazing to see the amount of satellites that pass over Ireland each day and their roles up in space.
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Earth Observation Browser is a free online tool that lets you explore satellite images from all over the world. You can look at almost any location, compare how places have changed over time, and use different views like true colour to see things like vegetation. It makes satellite data easy to understand and is a great resource for learning about the environment.
I would use the Earth Observation Browser in my classroom to make geography and science lessons more interactive for the class. Students could compare images of the same place from different years to investigate topics like climate change, deforestation, coastal erosion, or how cities have grown. They could also use NDVI to look at plant health and discuss why changes have happened. I think using real satellite images would make lessons more interesting and help students develop observation, critical thinking, and digital skills while learning about real environmental issues.-
I really like how you highlighted the value of using real satellite images to make learning more meaningful for pupils. I think comparing locations over time would be a great way to develop curiosity and encourage children to ask questions about why changes happen. Using NDVI is also a great idea as it would help link technology with science in a practical way.
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If you’re looking for a way to make Geography, Science and STEM more engaging, I’d definitely recommend having a look at the EO Browser. It’s a free, easy-to-use resource that gives children access to real satellite images of places all over the world. Instead of just reading about floods, volcanoes or climate change, they can actually see these events from space and explore how places have changed over time.
I can see myself using it with my 3rd class to investigate our own local area, compare satellite images with what we observe around the school and ask questions about what we notice. It would be a great starting point for inquiry-based learning and would naturally link with Geography, Science, Maths and even Oral Language as children discuss and explain their observations. What I like most is that it helps children think like real scientists, using genuine satellite data to explore the world around them. It’s a resource I could see becoming part of my teaching throughout the year, rather than something I’d use just once.
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EO Browser Elevator Pitch
EO Browser is an online tool that allows users to explore and analyse images of the Earth captured by satellites. It gives pupils the opportunity to view our planet from a completely different perspective and investigate real-world topics such as climate change, weather patterns, agriculture and environmental changes. Instead of just reading about these topics, pupils can use satellite images to observe and compare changes over time. In my classroom, I would use EO Browser during Geography and STEM lessons to encourage pupils to become researchers. For example, pupils could explore changes in land use, monitor weather events or compare different environments around the world. It would support inquiry-based learning by allowing children to ask questions, investigate evidence and communicate their findings. I would introduce it through a guided activity before allowing pupils to explore independently in groups. This resource would develop digital skills, critical thinking and a deeper understanding of our changing planet.
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The Earth Observation (EO) is a fantastic resource that uses satellite images and data to help us better understand our planet. I would explain to a colleague, that it allows us to see real-life changes happening on Earth, such as deforestation, flooding, climate change, and urban development, from space. It makes environmental topics much more engaging because pupils can view actual images rather than simply reading about them in a textbook. In my own 1st class, I would use EO in a simple, age-appropriate way by showing before-and-after satellite images of forests, rivers, or local areas and encouraging pupils to discuss what they notice. This would develop observation, questioning, and critical thinking skills while linking with SESE, Geography, and Science. Combined with outdoor activities around our school grounds, EO would help children connect global environmental issues with their own local environment in a meaningful and memorable way.
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Hi Evelyn,
Welcome to the course.
I really like how you would explain EO Browser to a colleague as a way of seeing real-life changes. Your examples of deforestation, flooding, climate change and urban development show its potential to make environmental learning much more visual and engaging for pupils.
Linking this with outdoor activities in the school grounds is a great idea, as it helps strengthen their observational skills while giving them some agency in data collection.
I hope you enjoyed the course.
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I really enjoyed reading your explanation of EO Browser. I like how you linked it to real-life learning and made it relevant for younger pupils. Using before-and-after satellite images is a great way to develop observation and discussion skills. I also agree that combining it with outdoor learning will make the experience even more meaningful for children.
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I really enjoyed reading your post Evelyn. I didn’t spend a lot of time exploring the EO Browser or the satellite tracking apps because I was more drawn to the practical classroom activities that would work with my 1st class children. We have limited access to technology in our school so I tend to focus on resources that the children can use.
That said, I have to admit I was fascinated by learning about the satellites themselves and the amount of information they can collect. It’s amazing to think that they can monitor changes on Earth from space and provide images that help scientists understand what’s happening to our planet. Your explanation has definitely made me more interested in exploring the EO Browser.
I also like your idea of using before and after images. Even with younger children, I think comparing two pictures and encouraging them to spot differences would generate lots of discussion and curiosity. It’s a lovely way of making such a big topic more accessible for junior classes.
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In recent times satellites such as the International Space Station (ISS), EIRSAT-1, Starlink, ADEOS II and a Chinese Space station called Tiangong have passed Ireland. I found the
Satellite Tracker App really interesting and definitely one I will use on the I Pad in school with students who have a special interest in Space related learning.
The ISS is one of the brightest and most frequent satellites over Ireland. It was conducting ongoing microgravity experiments, Earth‑observation studies, and supporting astronaut operations as it orbited overhead.
Starlink have been passing in clusters, performing station‑keeping, calibration, and network optimisation as they passed Ireland.
The Chinese satellite Tiangong was supporting Chinese scientific research, including materials science and Earth‑monitoring experiments
All of these satellites were carrying out a range of scientific, communication and observational tasks as they passed over Ireland.
One which may be of most interest to our students is the Irish satellite the EIRSAT-1 which was completing its Irish‑led research mission, detecting gamma‑ray bursts and solar flares while sending data back to University College Dublin.
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It is amazing how many satellites are up there alright. After spending time on the app and seeing how many Starlink satellites there are, one would have to give Elon Musk credit for his revolutionary approach to everything he does.
Exploring the Irish Satellite you mentioned is a good idea also and shows that small nations like ours can also contribute to scientific research in space. It would be a good opportunity to introduce the names of Irish people heavily involved in the space exploration specifically Dr. Norah Patten who is preparing to become the first Irish person to go to space.
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I explored a few of the apps outlined but in the end I used the Satellite tracker app. I found it quite interesting observing the various satellites and was particularly surprised to see how quickly they were travelling. Some of the satellites I came across were:
ISS – A crewed laboratory used for scientific research in microgravity, Earth observation, and testing technologies for future space missions. It is due to pass again this evening around 9.30pm.
NOAA -19 — Provides global weather observations, sea surface temperatures, cloud imagery, and environmental monitoring.
Meteor M No. 2 — Monitors clouds, sea ice, snow cover, and atmospheric conditions for weather forecasting and climate studies.
NOAA – 18 — Collects weather imagery and atmospheric data used for weather forecasting, climate monitoring, and environmental research.
Starlink v2 Mini — Part of SpaceX’s broadband internet constellation, providing high-speed internet access worldwide. Starlink satellites pass over Ireland frequently each day.
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Hi John, I was the same I tried a few different apps before I settled on a tracker website I found. I too found it fascinating how fast they were going and really enjoyed clicking into them and seeing what they do. I realised just how I don’t actually know much about space and how we rely on satellites for everyday things such as internet. I think the children would also be interested in this resource.
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If I had to explain EO Browser to a colleague, I would say that it is a free online tool that lets you see our planet through satellite images. It allows you to explore places all over the world, compare how they have changed over time, and investigate topics such as forests, cities, rivers, air pollution, floods and climate change. It is easy to use and has an Education Mode that is designed especially for teachers and students.
In my classroom, I would use EO Browser to make geography and science lessons more interesting and real. For example, we could look at our local area and compare satellite images from different years to see how it has changed. We could also explore the effects of floods, wildfires or deforestation in other parts of the world. The children could ask questions, make observations and discuss why these changes have happened. This would encourage curiosity, critical thinking and a better understanding of climate change. Using real satellite images would help pupils connect what they learn in class with the real world and understand why it is important to care for our planet. -
I really enjoyed the change in perspective and the looking for evidence aspect of the ‘From the Ground and From the Sky’ resource. Aside from the aspect of looking at satellite imagery and knowing that these pictures are taken from space, I think it was really interesting to be able to compare and contrast the images of the same place but taken from different angles. I would definitely use these activities in class and I would also incorporate some map work activity with this. It always amazes me how the children often find it difficult to compare and contrast aerial photographs and the OSI maps – I think that these activities would really help to focus in on the search for evidence, distinguishing features etc. The facility on Google Maps to ‘look back in time’ could also be used in conjunction with the satellite phots to show how an area has developed and changed over time. This might be a useful activity while studying local history.
I really like how the ESA activities are laid out in an easy to follow format – even those with no interest in space and space related topics would find these activities both useful and easy to use with a class.-
I agree with your point about the different perspectives. I think children often find it much easier to understand aerial photographs when they can compare them directly with what they already know on the ground. I also like your idea of using Google Maps to look back over time, as it would make the link with local history much more meaningful. The ESA resources are very practical and easy to follow, and I think they make it much less intimidating for teachers who might not have much experience teaching space-related topics.
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I found your reflection on the ESA activities really interesting, Aidan. I like how you focused on the importance of developing pupils’ skills in observing, comparing and finding evidence rather than just viewing satellite images as something interesting from space. Your idea of combining satellite imagery with OSI maps and Google Maps’ historical imagery is excellent, as it creates a strong link between STEM, geography and local history. I also agree that these resources are accessible and practical for teachers, even those who may not have a strong interest in space.
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<span style=”font-weight: 400;”>I had a closer look through the resource Nose High to the Sky and I think it is a wonderful resource which can be adapted across the levels in primary school. It includes various lessons that delve into the connection between Earth and space and provides a broad range of information to assist in student learning. I especially like how this resource focuses on the importance of satellites that provide so much for us on our planet. Much more than we ever consider, and it is a great way to draw the students’ attention to this fact. The satellite images provide the children with an extensive view of what our planet looks like from space, and provokes thoughts about how we need to take care of our ever changing landscapes for our futures. The children can get a chance to see environmental changes while also being able to make weather predictions by viewing satellite images. This connects them to the idea of climate change. The satellite tracking apps are an excellent resource at hand, and I will definitely be using these next year. </span>
<span style=”font-weight: 400;”>I think the Nose High to the Sky is a very useful resource that allows students to become young scientists. They have an opportunity to become critical thinkers, observers and explorers in a very accesible way.</span>
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Option 3:
I found the ESA resource ‘Nose High Up in the Sky’ to be engaging, well-structured and highly suitable for the primary classroom. The activities are practical, inquiry-based and encourage pupils to develop observation, discussion and scientific investigation skills. I particularly liked how the lessons progressed from exploring everyday ideas about weather to analysing real weather data, helping pupils build their understanding step by step.Activity 1 gives an excellent introduction by encouraging pupils to discuss weather sayings and their own experiences. This would promote oral language development while also allowing pupils to question whether common weather proverbs are always accurate. Activity 2 encourages children to use their senses to observe and describe weather conditions, introducing scientific vocabulary in a meaningful context. I especially enjoyed Activity 3, as pupils use satellite images and real weather information to investigate and interpret weather patterns. Using authentic images from space would capture pupils’ interest and provide a strong link between science, geography and technology.
I could definitely use this resource with my 6th class next year as part of a cross-curricular STEM unit. To enhance the activities, I would include opportunities for pupils to keep a weather journal over several weeks, compare their observations with satellite images and weather forecasts, and present their findings to the class using digital tools.
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Using a satellite tracking app, I found that several satellites regularly pass over Ireland. Five examples are:
- <b>International Space Station (ISS)</b><span style=”font-weight: 400;”> – A space laboratory where astronauts carry out scientific experiments and research.</span>
<li style=”font-weight: 400;” aria-level=”1″><b>Starlink satellites</b><span style=”font-weight: 400;”> – Used to provide satellite internet access around the world.</span>
<li style=”font-weight: 400;” aria-level=”1″><b>Sentinel-2 satellites</b><span style=”font-weight: 400;”> – Earth observation satellites that monitor land, vegetation and environmental changes.</span>
<li style=”font-weight: 400;” aria-level=”1″><b>NOAA weather satellites</b><span style=”font-weight: 400;”> – Collect data about weather systems and help with forecasting.</span>
<li style=”font-weight: 400;” aria-level=”1″><b>GPS satellites</b><span style=”font-weight: 400;”> – Provide location and navigation services used by phones, cars and other devices.</span>I found this activity interesting as it shows pupils how satellites are used in everyday life. It would be a useful STEM activity to develop children’s understanding of space technology, weather monitoring and how satellites help us learn more about our planet.
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<li style=”list-style-type: none;”>
- International Space Station (ISS) – A space laboratory where astronauts carry out scientific experiments and research.
Starlink satellites – Used to provide satellite internet access around the world.
Sentinel-2 satellites – Earth observation satellites that monitor land, vegetation and environmental changes.
NOAA weather satellites – Collect data about weather systems and help with forecasting.
GPS satellites – Provide location and navigation services used by phones, cars and other devices.
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I enjoyed working through the Nose Up High in the Sky resource because it reminded me that weather is something children are naturally curious about. They don’t need to be convinced to learn about it because they’re already asking questions like, “Will it rain today?” or “Why is it so windy?” I think that’s what makes this resource so engaging.
One activity that stood out to me was making and using simple weather instruments. I know the children in my class would love the opportunity to make a windsock or a rain gauge and then test whether it actually works. I could imagine them comparing whose design worked best and discussing why. Those conversations are often where the real learning happens.
I also liked that the activities encourage children to spend time outdoors. With so much learning taking place inside the classroom, it’s a good reminder that the school yard can be just as valuable. Even a short walk around the local area to look for signs of the weather would generate plenty of discussion.
If I was adapting the resource for First Class, I wouldn’t try to complete every activity exactly as written. I’d choose one or two and revisit them over a few weeks. I find younger children benefit more from returning to an idea several times than trying to cover too much in one go.
Overall I came away with a few practical ideas that I could fit into my existing SESE plans without needing extra equipment or lots of preparation. What I value most in a resource is it’s something I can see myself using. -
I have to admit, I’ve never thought about how many satellites orbit the earth before or their purposes. I had a look at the N2YO satellite tracker. It was really interesting to see how many satellites are constantly passing overhead without us ever noticing. Some of the satellites that recently passed over Ireland included the International Space Station , Starlink-37158, Sentinel-2A, NOAA-20, and Terra. These satellites all have different jobs. The only ones I’d heard of before are the ISS, which is home to astronauts carrying out scientific research and Starlink which provide satellite internet. I found out that Sentinel-2A captures images of Earth to monitor forests, crops and natural disasters, NOAA-20 collects weather and climate data and Terra studies Earth’s atmosphere, land and oceans to help scientists understand climate change.
I think this would be a brilliant activity with my 6th class. I’m sure the students would be surprised to learn that satellites are passing over Ireland every day. It’s a simple activity that could spark lots of curiosity and discussion.
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OPTION THREE
• I completed the pupil activities from the ESA Nose High Up in the Sky resource and found them engaging, practical, and suitable for primary pupils.
• Activity 1 – Talking about the Weather. I analysed weather proverbs such as “Red sky at night, sailors delight” and found this activity excellent for encouraging discussion, critical thinking, and linking traditional weather sayings with scientific explanations about the atmosphere and weather systems.
• Activity 2 – Sensing the Weather. I observed the weather using my senses by describing the clouds, temperature, wind, and rain, and I found that this activity helped develop observation skills, scientific vocabulary, and an understanding that accurate forecasts require more than human senses alone.
• Activity 3 – Build Your Weather Station. I followed the instructions to measure temperature and understand how an anemometer and rain gauge work. I found this hands-on investigation particularly effective for teaching data collection, measurement, teamwork, and the role of scientific instruments in weather forecasting. -
Using a satellite tracker website on my Desktop I managed to track the following Five Satellites passing over Ireland today 17.07.2026.
STARLINK-37333 #69174 – launched by SpaceX and used to deliver high speed internet.
KUIPER-00044 #64505 : Amazon Leo (Project Kuiper) satellites are designed to provide fast, low-latency broadband internet to underserved communities, unserved businesses, and government agencies worldwide.
HULIANWANG DIGUI-23 #63690. Chinese Low Earth Orbit (LEO) communications satellite launched in April 2025. Operated by state-owned China Satellite Network Group (CN), serves as a technical test payload for building a global broadband internet network.
PELICAN-2 3009 #62631 :Operated by Planet Labs . Provides high-frequency monitoring useful for defense, agriculture, urban planning, and environmental tracking.
The International Space Station (ISS) : Has main purposes such as microgravity research, space exploration training, human health studies, but its main observatory function is Earth & Space observation as it allows for continuous monitoring of climate change, natural disasters, and the wider atmosphere.
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There are many satellites orbiting the earth and the following five passed over Ireland in the last week. They are the International Space Station (ISS), Starlink-2162, Starlink-1493, Weihai-1 01, and METOP-B. They revolve around the Earth regularly passing over Ireland. They provide important data for forecasting the weather, observing the environment, for science, and communication.
Astronauts, on the International Space Station (ISS), carry out scientific experiments, test new technologies, and observe Earth.
Starlink-2162 and Starlink-1493 provide high-speed internet coverage, especially for remote or rural communities, ships, and aircraft.
The Weihai-1 01 satellite captures images of planet Earth. These are used for monitoring the environment, mapping and for agriculture.
The European weather satellite, METOP-B collects data used by meteorologists to forecast weather more accurately and to observe climate patterns.
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I tried the “Nose Up High up in the Sky” activities.
In a senior class I would assign each group a different activity within the weather station. I would have 2 groups per activity (i.e. 6 groups in total), measuring either: wind speed, air temperature or rain.
A selection of materials would be provided (as per the list in the PDF, as well as others) and the children would use a problem-solving approach in their groups to design their own equipment.
I feel that this would foster the STEM skills of planning and designing, creating/ building, testing and evaluating, redesigning/ improving and communicating.
I would have each group present their designs to the class.
I really like that this course has included practical lesson activities.
I will be creating a folder on our school digital “SharePoint” with the activities and highlighting it in our staff meeting, for use during science week/ engineers week/ maths week etc. -
I decided to use a satellite tracker website to discover what satellites have passed Ireland recently. I found it interesting to see how many satellites pass over Ireland every day and how they all have different jobs. The five that have recently passed Ireland are the International Space Station (ISS), Sentinel-2A, Sentinel-2B, NOAA-20 and also a Starlink satelllite. The ISS is primarily used as a place for astronauts to carry out some experiments in space. Sentinel-2A and Sentinel-2B satellites are used to observe Earth, they take detailed images of land, forests and coastlines. They are also used to monitor flooding, wildfires and changes in the environment. NOAA-20 collects weather and climate data which helps in predicting more accurate weather forecasts and to monitor storms. The Starlink satellite is part of a large network that provides satellite internet, especially in remote areas. I enjoyed using this resource and I feel an older class would really enjoy this and find it fascinating.
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Download the Teacher Guide & Pupil Activities for the ESA Resource ‘ Nose High Up in The Sky, carry out the pupil activities yourself and post your thoughts on the resource and if you would use it in class.
This was a very interesting module and I think that children will really enjoy taking part in activities in which they are given the opportunity to explore observing earth and space from a variety of perspectives.
The ESA Resource ‘High Up in the Sky’ would be a fun and engaging lesson which could be adapted to suit all class levels.
The lesson gives children lots of opportunities for exploration and self-discovery, as well as allowing them to foster scientific skills and being involved in inquiry based learning.
I would use this resource to teach children about the different ways in which the earth can be observed from space. They would be given the opportunity to compare and contrast satellite images of the earth taken from space with those taken from the earth itself. We would discuss the pros and cons of using satellite images.
I think that there would be plenty of opportunity to integrate the lesson with geography and developing geographical skills such as mapping as well as developing a better sense of place and space.
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The EO Browser is a free online tool that allows you to research and study satellite images of the Earth. It provides up-to-date and historical images from satellites, making it easy to see how different places have changed over time. For example, you can compare images of forests, cities, coastlines or rivers and investigate the effects of climate change, natural disasters or human activity. I think it is a wonderful and informative resource because it brings real-world science into the classroom and helps pupils connect what they are learning to places they know.
In a 5th class (my current class level) I would use the EO Browser as part of a geography or STEM lesson. I would demonstrate how to search for our local area and compare satellite images from different years, encouraging pupils to identify any changes they notice. We could also explore areas affected by flooding, wildfires or deforestation and discuss the reasons for these changes and how we can prevent them from happening. Pupils could work in pairs to investigate a location and share their findings with the class. This would help develop observation, questioning and critical thinking skills while making learning interactive and engaging.-
I really liked reading your ideas about using the EO Browser. It seems like such a valuable resource for bringing geography and science to life in the classroom. I agree that being able to compare satellite images from different years would really help pupils understand that our environment is constantly changing. Looking at familiar places would make the learning even more meaningful for them. I also like your idea of exploring places affected by flooding, wildfires or deforestation, as it encourages pupils to think about the reasons behind these changes rather than just observing them. Pair work would work really well too, giving children the opportunity to discuss their observations and learn from each other. It would also be a great way to develop oral language, teamwork and critical thinking skills. I think this resource could easily be linked with Green Schools, geography and STEM lessons, while also helping pupils appreciate the importance of protecting our environment and recognising that their own actions can make a difference.
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I was amazed by how many satellites are currently orbiting the Earth! Here are the ten satellites I explored and what they are used for:
* International Space Station (ISS) – Orbits the Earth every 90 minutes. It is used for scientific research, observing Earth’s atmosphere and natural disasters, and carrying out experiments on how living organisms and materials behave in space.
* Cosmos 1844 – An inactive Russian satellite launched in 1987 as part of the Tselina-2 programme. It was designed to intercept and analyse military and civilian radio transmissions and is now monitored as space debris.
* SpaceMobile-002 – Part of the AST SpaceMobile satellite constellation, designed to provide direct-to-device cellular broadband without requiring specialised equipment.
* Intercosmos 25 – An inactive scientific satellite launched in 1991 to study electron beams, charged particles and their interaction with Earth’s ionosphere and magnetosphere.
* Okean-O – An Earth observation satellite used to monitor sea surface temperatures, Arctic ice conditions, weather systems, marine ecology, phytoplankton and geological features.
* STARLINK-35185 – One of the Starlink satellites providing high-speed broadband internet to users in over 70 countries.
* GLOBALSTAR M053 – A communications satellite that supports services such as the Emergency SOS feature available on iPhones.
* KUIPER-00493 – Part of Amazon’s Project Kuiper, a growing network of satellites designed to provide broadband internet coverage worldwide.
* DRISHTI – An Indian satellite used for weather monitoring and environmental observations, helping scientists track weather patterns and climate data.
* COSMOS 1257 – A Russian Defence Ministry satellite associated with military and government space operations.I found this activity fascinating because I had no idea there were so many satellites carrying out such a wide variety of jobs. From internet services and emergency communications to weather forecasting, environmental monitoring and scientific research, satellites play a much bigger role in our everyday lives than I had realised.
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The EO Browser is a fantastic free resource that gives teachers and pupils access to real satellite images from around the world. Before this module, I wasn’t aware of how easy it was to access this type of data, but I found the step-by-step guide and tutorial very user-friendly. I would describe it to a colleague as “Google Maps with a scientific twist.” Instead of simply viewing places, you can explore how they have changed over time using real satellite imagery. It provides a brilliant opportunity to make geography, science and climate change much more meaningful for children.
As I teach Senior Infants and also work as a SET, I would use the EO Browser in a simple and visual way. I could display satellite images of our local area or places that the children are familiar with and encourage them to compare what they see from above with photographs taken on the ground. This would develop observation, oral language and questioning skills while introducing children to the idea that satellites help us understand and care for our planet. I also think it would be an excellent resource for comparing landscapes, identifying rivers, forests and towns, or observing changes to an area over time. Although some of the features are more suited to older classes, the visual nature of the resource means it can easily be adapted for younger pupils with teacher support. Overall, I can definitely see myself using the EO Browser as part of integrated STEM lessons, as it encourages curiosity, inquiry and meaningful discussion using real-world data. -
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Amazingly, we did see the ISS pass over us in coastal Wexford a few nights ago! Five satellites that have passed Ireland recently are:
International Space Station (ISS)
Starlink-2637 – this satellite assists in providing broadband internet coverage, helping deliver high-speed, low-latency internet access to users in remote and rural areas.
Starlink-2234 – this satellite also assists with broadband coverage for over 4 million users in remote and rural areas across more than 70 countries.
Starlink-3509 – this satellite was launched in February 20, 2022 and also assists in providing broadband to remote and underserved regions.
Starlink-3533 – this satellite is also concerned with broadband in remote areas, including maritime settings.
These are called Low Earth Orbit (LEO) objects and they are bright enough to be seen with the naked eye! I learned that satellites do not emit their own light, rather they reflect the sun. This link https://astronomy.ie/starlink-satellites/ is a handy one for the Starlink satellites. It does make the point that the vast numbers of satellites now do have an impact on dark skies, albeit the data provided is very interesting and the service provided can be very important.
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I have chosen to look at From the ground and from the sky – Analysing and understanding images of planet earth taken from space | Teach with space PR10 resource.The activity pack says that this lesson will take approximately 45 minutes with 15 minutes teacher preparation necessary. I think it would take a lot longer and could be a stimulus to a science and geography project linked to Climate Change and perhaps as part of a Green School activity. I feel that the lesson would be best suited to the senior classes.
Using the photos of earth taken from the ISS would be a good stimulus for a discussion on why we need space travel at all and what information we can glean from having a bird’s eye view of anything. Having photos that have been taken by different astronauts at different times of day, looking at different parts of the earth would be useful for discussion the orbit of the earth and seasons.
Using the photos provided would allow for lots of language and discussion, pair work, group work and observational skills development. Having the answer key is hugely helpful as teachers are very busy and without that would have to look for all that information in the photos leading to more preparation time and the likelihood that it wouldn’t be used. This activity could also be linked in to atlas work, using map to discover mountains, rivers, deserts of the world.
Having looked at the photos in the first activity and having the pupils look for those places in the atlas, then using the satellite photos to look at those places again would change the discussion. Once they had time to examine both sets of photos and come to conclusions about the value of these sets of photos to geographers and scientists I would explain that they have matching pairs, the same location from earth and space and ask them to try to match them.
I feel this would be a very useful activity for 5th or 6th class when learning about many of the strands of Geography and Science including in science Energy and Forces (planet Earth in space) and Environmental awareness and care (environmental responsibility and stewardship/ sustainability) and in Geography Natural environments (weather, climate and atmosphere and environmental awareness and care (caring for environments)
I feel I would use it with senior classes but doubt I would use it with 8 or 9 year olds. I like the idea of printing and laminating them so that they would be available for use in the future.-
I agree with you that 45 minutes wouldn’t be enough. There are so many opportunities for discussion and links with Geography and Science that it could easily stretch over a few lessons. I also like your idea of using the astronaut photos to start a discussion about why space exploration is important. I think this activity would definitely suit 5th and 6th class best.
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I have really enjoyed tracking satellites using the ‘Satellite Tracker by Star Walk’ app. 5 satellites I found that are projected to have visible passes over Ireland soon are:
1. SPACEMOBILE-010 (at 9:38pm tonight)
This is part of a satellite network designed to provide mobile communication services from space. It helps connect devices in areas where traditional phone networks may not be available, including remote locations.2. International Space Station (at 10:04pm tonight)
The International Space Station is a large research laboratory orbiting Earth where astronauts live and carry out scientific experiments. It currently has seven astronauts on board according to the app.3. SL-16 R/B (at 9:56pm tonight)
This is a rocket body left over from a previous satellite launch. It is no longer an active satellite but continues to orbit Earth as part of the space debris that scientists track to help keep space operations safe. For me, this was the most interesting “satellite” I tracked, as I never thought of this being a thing that happens!4. Starlink-3395 (at 10:41pm tonight)
Part of the Starlink satellite network, which provides high-speed internet coverage from space. These satellites work together to bring internet access to areas where traditional connections are limited.5. Sentinel-2B (at 11:08pm tonight)
An Earth observation satellite that takes detailed images of the planet’s land and coastal areas. It is used to monitor changes in the environment, such as agriculture, forests, water quality and the effects of climate change… very appropriate for this course! -
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I enjoy looking for satellites on a clear night with my own children so I enjoyed researching this question.
The five satellites I found were:
- <b></b>International Space Station (ISS)
- <b></b>Starlink satellite
- <b></b>NOAA-20
- <b></b>Suomi NPP
- <b></b>OCO-2 (Orbiting Carbon Observatory-2)
The ISS is a research laboratory where astronauts carry out experiments in areas like biology, medicine and space technology. Starlink satellites are part of SpaceX’s network that provides high-speed internet, especially in places where broadband is poor. NOAA-20 is a weather satellite that monitors storms, temperatures and cloud cover to improve weather forecasting. Suomi NPP collects information about the Earth’s atmosphere, oceans and land, helping scientists monitor climate change and natural disasters. OCO-2 measures carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere, giving scientists valuable data about greenhouse gases and how they affect our climate.
I thought it was fascinating to realise that so many satellites pass over Ireland every day, quietly collecting information or providing services that we use without even noticing.
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After exploring the ESA resource Nose High Up in the Sky, I found it to be an engaging, practical and well-designed resource that would work very well with my 4th Class. The activities are hands-on, easy to follow and encourage pupils to investigate how our sense of smell works while making interesting links to science and space. I enjoyed completing the pupil activities myself and found that they promoted observation, prediction, discussion and critical thinking, all of which are important scientific skills.
I would definitely use this resource in my classroom because it supports the Primary Science curriculum while encouraging active, inquiry-based learning. The investigations would allow pupils to work collaboratively, record their findings and compare results with their classmates. I also like that the activities encourage children to ask questions and think like scientists rather than simply learning facts. To extend the lesson, I would ask pupils to create their own smell investigation or keep a science journal to record their observations. Overall, I found the resource enjoyable, accessible and highly suitable for a 4th Class classroom.
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I was amazed at the sheer number of satellites orbiting earth. It was not something I have ever considered before and I was certainly not aware of the many websites that provide us with this information. I think children would really enjoy tracking them in class. The satellites that have passed Ireland recently are
1. Sentinel 2B – an environmental European spacecraft that specialises in mapping land surfaces. It is very useful as it can detect pollution in our rivers, lakes and seas and it monitor forests and crops.
2.Cosmos 2428 is satellite operated by the Russians for defense.
3. The International Space Station which is the largest artificial satellite that orbits Earth. It’s main function is for science and engineering purposes and it completes around 16 orbits every single day.
4. NOAA 21 – This a a US weather and environmental satellite that monitors climate and weather.
5. Starlink satellites – provide high speed internet access to the world.
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Hi Deirdre,
Welcome to the course and thanks for sharing the satellites orbiting earth now. It is fascinating the number of satellites orbiting us and the different roles each satellite has also.
I agree that learners would really enjoy tracking them and I think this would be a great idea during Space Week in October and get students to check at a specific time each day to allow for comparisons across the week.
I hope you are enjoying the course, thanks for sharing.
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I thought similar to Deirdre, every minute there was loads of different satellites travelling over Ireland. I think showing this to children will really amaze them to see how many satellites are actually in space. Groups can do short research on different types of satellites in space and feedback to the class so as to give everyone a sense of their uses, as it is so vast and varied. Then I think it’s good to pick a hook satellite that may interest them such as the International Space Station ISS. As the ISS has so much content, videos and ideas to talk about. Tracking this will then give them the skills to track and observe a satellite. Then from the earlier research they can track a satellite that maybe of interest to them.
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Hi Deirdre,
I had a similar reaction to you Deirdre, as I was surprised by how many different satellites are passing over Ireland at any given time. I think introducing this concept to children would be a great way to spark their curiosity and allow them to appreciate how active space exploration is. Pupils could work in groups to research different types of satellites and present their findings to the class, helping everyone develop an understanding of the wide range of purposes satellites serve, from monitoring weather and climate to communication and scientific research.
I think it would also be beneficial to begin with a satellite that captures children’s imagination, such as the International Space Station (ISS). The ISS provides a great starting point as there are many videos, images and educational resources available that can help pupils understand life in space and the research carried out there. By tracking the ISS, children can develop the skills needed to locate, observe and follow the movement of a satellite. Following this introduction, pupils could then choose a satellite that interests them from their earlier research and track it themselves, allowing them to take ownership of their learning and further explore the role satellites play in understanding our planet.
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After completing the activities in the Nose High Up in the Sky resource, I found it to be an engaging and well-structured resource that would work very well in the primary classroom. I particularly liked how the lessons build progressively, beginning with pupils’ prior knowledge before encouraging them to make their own observations and then compare these with real weather data and satellite images. This gradual progression supports inquiry-based learning and keeps pupils actively involved throughout.
The activities provide excellent opportunities for discussion, prediction and critical thinking. I especially liked the emphasis on using pupils’ senses to observe the weather, as this makes learning meaningful and relevant to their everyday lives. The photographs of Earth from space and the comparison with ground-level images also help children appreciate different perspectives while introducing them to the role of satellites in monitoring weather and the environment.
I would definitely use this resource in my classroom. I would adapt some of the activities to suit the age group I am teaching by incorporating more visual supports, weather symbols and practical outdoor observations where appropriate. Overall, it is an enjoyable, cross-curricular resource that promotes curiosity, scientific inquiry and active participation.
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Before using the EO Browser, I had never realised how easy it was to access real satellite images of the Earth. I would describe it to a colleague as a free online tool that lets you see how places have changed over time using satellite imagery. It’s simple to use and doesn’t require any specialist knowledge, making it a great resource for both teachers and pupils.
I think the EO Browser would be a valuable addition to the classroom because it gives children the opportunity to investigate real environmental issues rather than just reading about them in a textbook. For example, pupils could compare images of their local area from different years to see changes in vegetation, land use or the effects of flooding. This would encourage them to ask questions, make observations and discuss why these changes have happened.
I like that the resource promotes curiosity and hands-on learning. It gives pupils the chance to think like scientists by exploring real data and drawing their own conclusions. I believe using the EO Browser would make lessons more engaging while helping pupils develop important STEM skills and a better understanding of the world around them.
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I downloaded the ESA resource ‘Nose High Up in the Sky’. I loved this resource and would definitely use it with a senior class.
Activity 1 – The Earth Seen From the ISS.
This gives loads of interesting facts based on the International Space Station which the children would love. The children can work independently or in groups to look at and describe photos of Earth taken from the ISS.
Activity 2 – Match the Photos.
Children have to match photos taken from the ground (on Earth) with photos taken from space (by an astronaut) of the same places. Excellent examples of photos are given which could easily be downloaded and printed off for group work. They then must compare and contrast these. A very interesting activity.
Activity 3 – Similar to Activity 2 but this time the photos are taken from the International Space Station. The children also learn more about Earth Observation satellite images and what they are used for. I think the resources in these activities are excellent and I would definitely use them.-
I really enjoyed reading your reflection on the ESA resource Nose High Up in the Sky. I agree that it is a fantastic resource for senior classes as it combines Science, Geography and STEM in a very engaging way. I particularly like the way the activities encourage pupils to become observers and investigators rather than simply learning facts. The opportunity to analyse real images from the International Space Station would be a great way to spark curiosity and encourage discussion about our planet. I also think Activity 2 would be particularly effective as pupils can practise comparing and contrasting while developing their observation and critical thinking skills. The link to Earth Observation satellites in Activity 3 is also very valuable, as it helps pupils understand how technology is used by scientists to monitor changes on Earth. These activities could also provide excellent opportunities for cross-curricular links, such as creative writing, art and digital presentations where pupils could share their findings.
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The EO Browser is a valuable digital tool that allows users to explore and analyse satellite images of the Earth. If I was explaining it to a colleague, I would describe it as a “window into our planet from space”, allowing pupils to investigate real-world changes happening on Earth using images collected by satellites. The tool allows users to compare different locations, observe environmental changes over time and explore topics such as climate change, weather patterns, land use and biodiversity.
I think EO Browser would be a very beneficial resource to use in the primary classroom, particularly for Science, Geography and STEM lessons. Pupils could investigate changes in their local area, compare landscapes in different countries or explore how environments have changed over time. For example, pupils could examine changes caused by flooding, deforestation or urban development and discuss the reasons behind these changes.
I would use EO Browser as part of inquiry-based learning, where pupils ask questions, investigate satellite images and present their findings. It would also support digital literacy by allowing pupils to use technology purposefully to explore real scientific data. While the tool may initially seem complex, with teacher guidance and a structured activity, it could provide a highly engaging learning experience for pupils.
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I like how you described EO Browser as a “window into our planet from space”—it’s a simple but effective way of explaining it to someone who hasn’t used it before. I also agree that it has great potential for inquiry-based learning. Having pupils investigate real satellite images and draw their own conclusions would make Science and Geography much more meaningful and engaging.
I especially liked your suggestion of exploring changes caused by flooding, deforestation and urban development, as these are topics that can spark great classroom discussions. I think it would also work well with older primary classes, such as 5th and 6th, where pupils could compare satellite images of their own local area over time and present their findings. Thanks for highlighting how the resource also supports digital literacy alongside STEM learning. -
I really liked your description of EO Browser as a “window into our planet from space.” It really captures what the tool does. I agree that using real satellite images would make lessons much more engaging and meaningful for children. I also like your idea of using it for inquiry based learning, as it encourages pupils to ask questions and investigate for themselves. I think it would work really well in a Gaelscoil too, as it provides lots of opportunities to introduce new Irish vocab related to weather, landscapes and the environment.
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At first I thought I was doing something wrong, as I thought I was searching over a longer period of time – I had no idea so many satellites could be above us at a time!
– Transit 5E -3 – This was a type of experimental space vessel used to test out various new materials and systems and how they held up in space.
– Starlink 3624 – Beam high speed internet around the globe.
– SL 16 R/B is a ‘dead’ satellite – it no longer serves a purpose, but is still tracked to prevent collisions with other satellites.
– CentiSpace-1 S6 This satellite enhances global navigation systems used for things like GPS systems so that they are accurate down to the nearest centimetre.
– Propcube 3 This is a tiny satellite that studies the Earth’s upper atmosphere.While I could not load the EO browser, I was able to quickly find lots of other options- I used In-the-sky.org and found it very easy to navigate, and very addictive!
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Several Earth‑observation satellites cross Ireland every day, collecting data that helps us understand weather, climate and the environment. Sentinel‑2A captures high‑resolution images used to monitor land cover, farming, coasts and flooding. Sentinel‑1B, a radar satellite, can see through clouds and tracks soil moisture, storm damage and coastal erosion. NOAA‑20 provides global weather data, including cloud patterns, temperatures and sea‑surface conditions that feed into Irish forecasts. Landsat‑8 offers long‑term environmental monitoring of forests, water quality and urban growth. MetOp‑C, Europe’s polar‑orbiting weather satellite, measures atmospheric chemistry, humidity and wind profiles.
Together, these satellites help Ireland track storms, understand coastal change, study peatlands and forests, and monitor how climate change affects the landscape. Their data is available through EO Browser and Copernicus Browser, making them ideal tools for classroom exploration.
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Five examples I found were the International Space Station (ISS), Starlink, Sentinel-2A, NOAA-20, and OneWeb satellites. The ISS is a space laboratory where astronauts carry out scientific experiments in areas such as biology, physics and medicine. Starlink satellites are part of SpaceX’s global network that provides high-speed internet, especially in remote locations. Sentinel-2A is an Earth observation satellite operated by the European Space Agency. It captures detailed images of the Earth’s surface to monitor forests, crops, coastlines and the effects of climate change. NOAA-20 collects weather and environmental data, helping meteorologists produce more accurate weather forecasts and monitor storms. OneWeb satellites also provide broadband internet services, with a focus on improving connectivity in rural and underserved areas. Seeing how many different satellites pass overhead every day made me realise how important they are for communication, weather forecasting, scientific research and monitoring changes to our planet. Satellite tracking is a great way to connect classroom learning about space with real-life technology that is constantly orbiting above us.
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I am really looking forward to using the resource Nose High up in the Sky with the pupils in my class. I found the lessons to be engaging and interactive. The activities encouraged observation, curiosity, and discussion about the environment while helping children develop an awareness of the natural world around them. The resource uses simple language, colourful illustrations, and practical tasks that make learning enjoyable and accessible for young learners.
Most children are fascinated by astronauts and Space .I really like the photo resources and allow opportunities for talk and discussion. They are an excellent resource to learn about different viewpoints from which you can observe an object. This activity can also lead to a discussion on how images from Space can give us a better understanding of our planet. The children would be fascinated by the photos taken by different astronauts on board the ISS. I think the photos used in this activity will give the children a new perspective on our planet and how small our country is in our planet -
Using a satellite tracking app, I identified five satellites that have passed over Ireland recently. These were the International Space Station (ISS), Starlink satellites, Hubble Space Telescope, Sentinel-2A Earth Observation Satellite and NOAA-20 Weather Satellite.
The International Space Station is a space laboratory where astronauts carry out scientific experiments and research. Starlink satellites are used to provide internet access across the world, including areas where traditional internet connections are more difficult to access. The Hubble Space Telescope helps scientists study space by capturing images of stars, planets and galaxies. Sentinel-2A is an Earth observation satellite that monitors changes on our planet, including vegetation, land use and environmental changes. NOAA-20 is a weather satellite that collects data to help with weather forecasting and climate monitoring.
I found this activity interesting as it showed how satellites play an important role in our everyday lives. They help us with communication, predicting weather, studying climate change and learning more about our planet and the wider universe. I think this would be a great activity to use with pupils as it links science and technology to real-world examples.
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The five latest satellites I tracked going over Ireland were the following
SL-R/b(2) – A spent Soviet rocket left in Earth orbit after launching, now being tracked as space debris.
SL-8 R/B – A discarded Soviet KOSMOS launch vehicle, it remains in low Earth orbit as more space debris.
SL-16 R/B – Another spent Soviet Zenit launch vehicle, this is tracked as a larger piece of space debris.
H-2A R/B – The discarded rocket body is from a Japan launch vehicle which delivered its payloadt.
COSMOS 1933 – Finally another Soviet satellite. It is a military reconnaissance satellite launched in 1988 as part of the (ELINT) satellite program.
It was interesting to note that 4 of the 5 satellites that had most recently passed over Ireland were Soviet. Also, that 4 of the 5 were essentially space junk and that they were rockets used to deliver other material/payloads to other projects. It made me think about should we have a way of bring this material down? Is there a danger to this being up there? Should we be using space as somewhere to put our junk? Just some of the thoughts that this exercise provoked.
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I found the satellite tracker app so interesting and educational. I will certainly share it with my colleagues and students alike. I also found the names of the satellites interesting and think this could be a great link to literacy with the students. getting them to think of where the name came from, the etymology and morphology.
The 5 satellites I tracked were:
1. GLOBALSTAR M053 is a communications satellite which provides the Emergency SOS on iphones currently.
2. International Space Station: Scientific research and technology demonstrations.
3. CentiSpace-1 S6 tests technologies to enhance global navigation satellite systems.
4. Gosat (IBUKI) – interestingly the world’s first satellite dedicated to monitoring greenhouse gases from space. It would be a great link to teaching carried out on greenhouse gases.
5. NOAA-19 – This weather satellite collects information about clouds, storms, temperatures, and atmospheric conditions.
I think the students would really enjoy the opportunity to use this tracker to look for and research in pairs using iPads/chromebooks. -
The app I have downloaded is Satellite Tracker.
1. International Space Station (ISS) – The ISS is a large spacecraft where astronauts live and carry out scientific experiments. It orbits Earth to study areas such as human spaceflight, biology, and technology.
2. Starlink satellites – These satellites are part of SpaceX’s satellite network, which provides internet coverage around the world, especially in areas where traditional internet connections are limited.
3. Sentinel-2 Earth observation satellite – This satellite monitors Earth’s land, vegetation, and environmental changes. It is used to study climate change, agriculture, and natural disasters.
4. Hubble Space Telescope – Hubble observes distant stars, planets, and galaxies, helping scientists learn more about the universe.
5. NOAA weather satellites – These satellites collect information about weather patterns, storms, and climate conditions, helping improve weather forecasts. -
5 satellites i tracked- Sentinel 1A, Sentinel 2A, Sentinel 3A, Landsat 9, NOAA 20
I found this activity interesting because I had never used a satellite tracker before. It was surprising to see how many satellites pass over Ireland each day. I learned that they all have different jobs. Some collect weather information, while others tale pictures of the Earth or monitor changes to the environment. This information helps scientists learn more about climate and protect our planet.
I think this would work well in the classroom. Most children are interested in space, so tracking real satellites would capture their attention. I t would fit in well with science and geography and could lead to good discussions about weather, climate and the environment. The activity is easy to follow and gives pupils a chance to use technology while learning something new. I t would help them understand that satellites play an important role in our everyday lives
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Hi Caitriona
It is great to hear you found this task interesting, we often think of the larger items in space and not the smaller satellites and the amount of them that pass over every day.
This might be a nice idea during Space Week and have different groups track satellites at the same time every day and for others to guess what the role of the satellite is.
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Sentinel-2A – This satellite takes detailed images of Earth’s land surfaces, helping monitor agriculture, forests, water quality, and environmental changes.
Sentinel-2B – Works alongside Sentinel-2A to collect images used for mapping land, tracking vegetation growth, and studying climate impacts.
Sentinel-3A – Measures oceans and the atmosphere by monitoring sea temperatures, sea levels, and changes in marine environments.
Sentinel-3B – Collects data on ocean conditions and climate patterns, helping scientists understand changes in Earth’s systems.
International Space Station (ISS) – A space laboratory where astronauts carry out scientific experiments and observe Earth, including weather and environmental changes -
Elevator Pitch: Introducing EO Browser based on the app Satelite tracker.
EO Browser is an interactive online tool that allows users to explore images of the Earth captured by satellites orbiting in space. Put simply, it is like having a “camera in the sky” that allows us to look at our planet from above and observe how places change over time. Scientists use satellite images to monitor weather, climate change, agriculture, oceans, forests and natural disasters. For teachers and pupils, EO Browser provides an exciting opportunity to investigate real-world issues and develop curiosity about our planet. It transforms abstract concepts, such as climate change and environmental change, into something children can see and explore for themselves. Instead of simply learning facts from a textbook, pupils can use real satellite data to ask questions, make observations and investigate changes happening around the world.
I would definitely consider using EO Browser in my classroom, particularly with senior primary pupils, but I would also adapt elements of it for junior classes through teacher-led exploration. It is an excellent resource for STEM learning because it encourages children to become investigators and scientists. The visual nature of the tool makes it particularly engaging, as children can see images of familiar places, including Ireland, from a completely different perspective.
In a junior primary setting, I would introduce EO Browser in a simple and accessible way. I would begin by showing pupils a satellite image of Ireland and asking questions such as: “What can you see?”, “Can you find the sea?”, “Where are the towns and cities?”, and “Why do you think this image looks different from a photograph taken on the ground?” This would encourage observation, questioning and discussion.
For younger pupils, I could use EO Browser alongside Geography and Science topics such as weather, seasons, plants and habitats. For example, children could compare images of Ireland during different seasons and discuss changes they notice in the landscape. They could investigate how forests, fields and coastlines appear from space. This would link well with environmental awareness and encourage children to understand that satellites help us learn about and protect our planet.
For older primary pupils, I would use the tool in a more inquiry-based way. Pupils could investigate changes in land use, flooding, urban development or climate-related events. They could compare satellite images from different years and record observations. This would support STEM skills such as analysing data, forming conclusions and communicating findings.
The “Nose High Up in the Sky” resource also highlights the importance of looking at Earth from a different perspective. I think this would be a useful concept to introduce to pupils because children often view their local area from the ground. Satellite imagery allows them to understand that Earth is connected and that environmental issues are not limited to one place. It encourages children to think globally while acting locally.
Examples of satellites that have passed over Ireland recently and what they do
Sentinel-2A.Sentinel-2A is part of the European Space Agency’s Copernicus programme. It uses a high-resolution camera to observe land surfaces, including forests, farms, rivers and coastal areas. It helps scientists monitor vegetation health, agriculture, land changes and environmental impacts.
Sentinel-2B
Sentinel-2B works alongside Sentinel-2A to collect detailed images of the Earth’s surface. In Ireland, it can help monitor changes in farmland, wetlands and natural habitats. This information supports environmental management and understanding how landscapes change over time.Sentinel-3A
Sentinel-3A focuses mainly on monitoring oceans and large-scale environmental changes. It measures sea temperature, ocean colour and changes in marine environments. This is particularly relevant for Ireland as an island nation, as it helps scientists understand changes in our surrounding seas.Sentinel-5P (Sentinel-5 Precursor)
Sentinel-5P monitors the atmosphere and measures gases that affect air quality and climate, such as nitrogen dioxide and ozone. It helps scientists understand pollution levels and how human activity influences the atmosphere.International Space Station (ISS)
The International Space Station is not a satellite, but it orbits Earth and carries out scientific research. Astronauts conduct experiments related to Earth observation, climate, biology and technology. Images taken from the ISS can help people understand weather systems, natural disasters and environmental changes.Concerns and Considerations
While EO Browser is an exciting resource, one consideration would be ensuring that pupils have the appropriate background knowledge to interpret satellite images. Younger children may find images abstract at first, so careful questioning and teacher guidance would be important. I would also need to ensure that activities are age-appropriate and linked clearly to curriculum objectives.Overall, EO Browser is a valuable STEM resource because it allows children to interact with real scientific data. It supports curiosity, digital literacy and environmental awareness while encouraging pupils to see themselves as scientists who can investigate and understand the world around them.
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Question 2
EO Browser is a free online tool that lets teachers and pupils explore real satellite images of anywhere on Earth. Rather than simply reading about climate change, deforestation, floods or melting glaciers, the pupils can explore these places themselves and actually see these changes for themselves and by comparing images taken over time, they readily see how the landscape has changed over time. This platform gives instant access to satellite images, allows users to create time-lapses, compare images from different dates and even investigate features such as vegetation health and air pollution using different satellite visualisations. It is an excellent inquiry-based STEM resource that encourages pupils to think, question and investigate like scientists.In my own teaching context, EO Browser would be an excellent, highly visual teaching tool because it reduces the literacy demands of learning through the use of real, visual evidence. I would introduce it on the interactive whiteboard before allowing pupils to explore familiar locations, such as the village in which the school is located, in pairs on their Chromebooks.. Through oral questioning and using picture prompts and discussion rather than lengthy written tasks, pupils could compare images, sort images into “before” and “after”, thereby identifying changes, making predictions and suggesting possible causes. This approach develops scientific enquiry, critical thinking, observation and communication skills while ensuring that every pupil can participate successfully, despite their reading ability. It also provides a meaningful way to link climate change learning with our Green Schools work and the Primary Science Curriculum, as it helps pupils appreciate that climate change is not just something they read about. It provides a medium for them to see that the changes they learn about are happening in the real world and this is critical for making science both relevant and accessible.
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I completed the pupil activities from ESA’s “Nose Up High in the Sky” resource and found them practical, engaging and easy to follow. The activities encouraged me to observe weather conditions, record data accurately, and compare my observations with scientific measurements. I liked how the resource links everyday weather observations to the work of weather satellites, helping pupils understand how scientists collect and use data to make weather forecasts.
I would definitely use this resource with my 5th and 6th class because it supports the inquiry-based approach of the Primary Science Curriculum. The activities would encourage pupils to investigate weather patterns in our local area, collect and graph data, and discuss how weather affects daily life. They also provide excellent opportunities to integrate Science, Geography and Maths, while developing digital literacy through the use of satellite imagery. I think my pupils would enjoy the hands-on investigations and would gain a better understanding of how space technology is used to study and protect our environment.
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I think that the activities in ‘Nose up High in the sky’ are are a great introduction to discussing and learning about the weather and climate on a daily basis. It is also a soft introduction into looking at and learning about satellites and all that the they do in researching and collecting data about the land seas and ice masses on earth. This could open up a longer and deeper investigations into how satellites play such an important role in all our lives.
The 3 activities include
– Talking about the weather using proverbs as a way to engage students. This is a cross curricular topic that can be linked to Science, maths and geography, Irish, art and PE
– Sensing about the weather would involve getting outside and using their senses and this would have a direct impact on well being and overall health. Using a journal to help keep track of the weather over a period of time would also be very informative for them.
– Building a weather station would also involve field work with a creative aspect involving the making of instruments to record eg rain fall or wind speed.
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Hi Helena,
Thank you for sharing your response to the Nose High Up in the Sky activities. You make a very good point that even though the activities are a gnetle introduction, they could open up deeper investigations into how satellites help us understand land, seas, ice masses and environmental change.
Your comments on the three activities are very strong. Using weather proverbs is a lovely cross-curricular starting point, with clear links to Science, Maths, Geography, Irish, Art and even PE. I also like your point about getting outside and using the senses to observe the weather, as this supports wellbeing as well as scientific observation.
The weather journal and weather station ideas would give pupils practical ways to record data over time. Building simple instruments would also strengthen the engineering element through designing, making, testing and improving.
Thanks for sharing, and hope you enjoy the course.
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Satellites pass over Ireland many times every day. The follow 5 passed over Ireland multiple times during the last week
1. International Space Station – carries out experiments in medicine, biology, science and physics
2. Sentinel – 2A: used to monitor crop health, flooding, wildfires and environmental change
3. NOAA – 2: measures atmospheric pressure
4. Starlink: one of thousands of broadband satellites
5. Terra: observes land,oceans, clouds and the atmosphere
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5 satellites I found were:
International Space Station (ISS)
Starlink Satellites (SpaceX)
Sentinel-3
NOAA Weather Satellites
Terra (NASA)
I learned from this module that many satellites pass over Ireland every day, each with a different purpose. I found the above satellites using the Orbitrack app. The International Space Station is home to astronauts carrying out scientific research. Starlink satellites provide internet services around the world, including rural areas. Sentinel-3 monitors Earth’s environment and helps scientists track climate change and protect natural resources. NOAA weather satellites improve weather forecasting by collecting information about storms and temperatures. NASA’s Terra satellite studies Earth’s land, oceans, and atmosphere. These satellites show how space technology has many different roles including communication and protecting our planet.
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The satellite tracker app is seriously addictive, wasn’t expecting it to be so. I got a telescope for a Christmas present last year so this is right up my alley!
Some of the satellites I tracked that pass over Ireland are:
1. International Space Station: probably the most well known, they engage in scientific research. It still blows my mind how fast they travel at
2. Starlink satellite SpaceX: providing internet -this looks really unusual in the sky, a train of satellites
3. NOAA-20 – this is a weather satellite that circles the globe 14 times a day, important in monitoring climate change
4. METEOSAT-11 – this is a weather satellite used by MetEireann, it’s on a fixed orbit on the equator 36000km above us and scans every 15 mins to generate data.
5. Sentinel-2A / Sentinel-2B is a European satellite that passes over Ireland every few days. It’s purpose it to capture high-res imagery that helps in monitoring and mapping land, agriculture and forestryHard to believe there’s so many in the sky above us!
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This is great information, thank you. I would like to explore further how Space X/ Starlink satellites are like a train of them..didn’t realise this.
Also good to know which satellite met Eireann uses and the distances involved. This would be nice for the children to know too.
Lastly after reading what you said I imagine that the European satellites that monitor land use (eg. agriculture and forestry) are used to help countries on their way to their climate commitments and also to help hold them accountable.
I’ll take note of some of these satellite names in case I invest in a telescope!
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I really enjoyed exploring the Nose Up High in the Sky resource and thought the activities were well structured and very engaging. I liked how pupils are encouraged to investigate the weather by making observations, collecting data and drawing conclusions, rather than simply learning facts. As a 5th class teacher, I think the children would particularly enjoy making the different weather instruments and comparing their findings over a number of days. I also liked the connection between weather observations on the ground and the role satellites play in monitoring weather patterns, as it makes the learning relevant and interesting. The resource would lend itself well to group work and class discussions, while also providing opportunities to integrate Maths through measuring and recording data. Overall, I think this is a valuable resource that encourages scientific thinking, problem-solving and curiosity about the world around us.</div>
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Hi Mark
Thanks for your feedback on the resource Nose Up High in the Sky. As a senior classes teacher I agree that it is very well structured and engaging. My class have enjoyed making the weather instruments and collecting their own data. Something I want to build on next school year with more connections to satellites as you have mentioned.
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Informing a colleague about the EO Browser I would highlight the following points:
Information gathered from satellites is available for free on this platform. First go into education mode. It allows you to select a location, cloud cover (less the better) and dates. This way you could explore weather and climate. For example, comparing the average temperature for a period in your area to some years ago to now and so investigate climate change.
You could look at many aspects of weather not just temperature. You could compare data from different parts of the same county to explore micro climates or to a different part of Ireland. This could be the stimulus to explore why such differences exist.
You can download maps making it easier to show to the class. With older classes after a few teacher led examples they could put in their own filters to explore areas of interest reporting back to the class what they learned.
It could also be used as a stimulus to learn more about the satellites flying over Ireland, the information they collect and how this information can be used for our benefit.
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Some of the satellites that I tracked there now that are passing over Ireland:
Starlink satellites: Operated by SpaceX, these satellites provide broadband internet coverage as we know. Being in South Kerry’s Dark Reserve, these been interesting to spot when several travel together and you see streaks across the night sky.
Project Kuiper satellites: These seem to be part of Amazon’s satellite network, providing high-speed internet access too.
COSMOS satellites: These are Russian satellites with different purposes depending on the individual satellite I believe, including communications, navigation, Earth observation and military applications. -
Nose High Up in the sky resource
I thought it was a really enjoyable and engaging way to explore the Earth and space. In a Gaelscoil, it would also be a lovely opportunity to introduce and reinforce new Irish vocabulary in a meaningful context, such as an Domhan, an spás, an satailít, na scamaill and an aimsir. Using real photographs would make the new language much realatable to the class too!
I really liked how the resource encourages children to compare images of Earth taken from satellites, astronauts on the International Space Station and from ground level. It helps them see that each viewpoint gives us different information. It would also be a great discussion and oral language activities as the children describe what they notice, ask questions and use their new vocab. There are lots of opportunities to develop observation skills while building an awareness of how satellites help us understand weather, the environment and our changing world.
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Using one of the satellite tracking websites, I found five satellites that recently passed over Ireland during July 2026. They include the International Space Station (ISS), Starlink satellites, Sentinel-2A, NOAA-19, and the Hubble Space Telescope.
- The ISS is a research laboratory where astronauts carry out scientific experiments in microgravity.
- Starlink satellites, operated by SpaceX, provide high-speed internet access around the world through a large network of low Earth orbit satellites.
- Sentinel-2A is part of the European Copernicus programme and monitors forests, crops, coastlines, floods, and other environmental changes.
- NOAA-19 collects weather and climate data that helps improve forecasting and storm tracking.
- The Hubble Space Telescope studies distant stars, galaxies, and planets, helping scientists understand how the universe has evolved.
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I really enjoyed working through the Nose Up High in the Sky resource and found it gave me lots of ideas that I could adapt for a Junior Infants class. Although some of the activities, such as building weather instruments and recording measurements, would be too advanced for this age group, the ideas behind them are very suitable. I would take my class outside each day to observe the weather using their senses and encourage them to talk about what they can see, hear and feel. We could record our observations using pictures, symbols or a simple class weather chart. I also liked how the resource introduces children to the idea that scientists and satellites help us understand and predict the weather. I would explain this using photographs and simple discussions. Overall, I think this resource encourages curiosity, observation and language development while supporting the hands-on, play-based approach we use in Junior Infants. I would definitely use parts of it during our weather theme.
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I downloaded the satellite tracker app and found five satellites that had recently passed ireland. These included the international space station (ISS), Hubble Space Telescope, Sentinel 2A and 1A satellites and Tiangong Space Station.
They all have different purposes. The ISS is used by astronauts to carry out specific scientific research in space. The hubble Space Telescope is used toobserve stars, galaxies and other objects in the universe. The Sentinel satellites are used for Earth observation and can help monitor things such as weather, land, oceans etc. Tiangong is china’s space station and is also used for scientific research.
This is all new learning for me and I’m sure it would be for my pupils also. It would be a very interesting project to assign a satellite to a group, allow them to research its purpose and present to the class. They could demonstrate how to use the app and show us when the satellite is due to pass over us. -
I found the ESA resource Nose High Up in the Sky to be an engaging and hands on practical way to aid teaching. I particularly liked the interactive element and the pupil activities were a great way to help make learning enjoying while also encouraging critical thinking and collaboration. The integration of science with environmental awareness was a great way to show pupils how they are so connected. It is a bonus that the activities can be adapted according to the age, class and abilities. The Teacher Guide is clear and the instructions are easily understandable. The learning objectives are clear and the suggestions for extending activities are very useful. It is an excellent resource for both experienced and confident teachers and those who are developing their understanding and teaching practices in this area. The Teacher Guide allows for seamless adapting according to class level. I would use this resource in my classroom to promote active learning and curiosity. It encourages pupil participation and helps pupils take ownership of their own learning. There are many opportunities for this resource to be integrated into the classroom through literacy, citince. Global citizenship, science etc.
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Hi Michelle
This resource is very engaging for all learners and as you have said it allows for collaboration and critical thinking. The integrated approach of this resource is great to make connections between different areas of the curriculum which can make learning more meaningful for the learners.
Thanks for sharing your feedback on this resource.
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I have never given satellites much thought other than spotting some in the skies on a clear night. It is amazing to think how many pass over and the amazing research that is happening far out in space. I used the Satellite tracker and Oribitrack app. Some of the satellites passing over Ireland recently are Spacevan, Transporter 17, and a number of STAR LINK satellites. You can find view each satellites in 3D and view the countries they represent. There is a countdown timer as to when they will pass over your current location. You can see the speed they travel this would be fascinating for student to track a satellite as it passes over countries.
There is so much potential for integration with maths and geography. I would then use the EO Browser with pupils to see the type of imagery and research these satellites can carry out. The EO browser allows you to view satellite imagery of agriculture, air pollution, floods, vegetation and forestry, oceans etc
I found viewing images of Australia very interesting and comparing them to images of Ireland. This would be ideal for studying natural disasters such as wild fires or volcanic activity. It gives pupils a hands on experience for researching projects -
Five satellites that passed over Ireland recently:
The International Space Station carries out experiments that improve our understanding of space and life on Earth.
Starlink satellites provide internet access to people around the world, particularly in areas with limited broadband.
Sentinel-2A monitors Earth’s land and vegetation, helping scientists track environmental changes and the effects of climate change.
NOAA-19 gathers weather information, such as temperatures, cloud cover and storms, which helps meteorologists make accurate forecasts.
VIZARD-ION is a research satellite that studies the ionosphere and tests new space technology.
Together, these satellites play an important role in scientific research, communication, weather forecasting and protecting the environment. They orbit the Earth continuously, making regular passes over Ireland that can be viewed using satellite tracking websites.
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Several Earth-observation satellites were passing over or monitoring Ireland.
Meteosat-11 is a geostationary weather satellite positioned above the Equator at 0° longitude. It continuously observes Europe, including Ireland and the UK, scanning the region every 15 minutes to provide cloud cover, weather, and surface temperature data used in forecasting.
Sentinel-2A is an Earth observation satellite that captures high-resolution images of land, vegetation, forests, farmland, inland waters, and coastal areas. It helps monitor environmental and agricultural changes.
Sentinel-2B works alongside Sentinel-2A, providing additional optical imagery to improve coverage and reduce the time between observations. Together, the two satellites revisit the same location approximately every five days.
Landsat 9 is a joint NASA and USGS satellite that records high-resolution images of Earth’s surface. It is used to monitor forests, agriculture, water resources, urban development, and environmental change over time.
In addition to these satellites, several Starlink satellites were also passing overhead. Unlike the Earth-observation satellites, Starlink satellites form a large constellation designed to provide high-speed internet access around the world. -
<p class=”isSelectedEnd”>Using a satellite tracking app, I identified five satellites that recently passed over Ireland:</p>
- International Space Station (ISS)
- Sentinel-2A
- Sentinel-3A
- MetOp-B
- Landsat 9
<p class=”isSelectedEnd”>These satellites all play important roles in observing and monitoring Earth. The International Space Station (ISS) is a research laboratory where astronauts carry out scientific experiments in areas such as biology, physics and climate science. Sentinel-2A captures high-resolution images of Earth’s land surface, helping scientists monitor forests, agriculture and environmental changes. Sentinel-3A measures sea surface temperature, ocean colour and land conditions, providing valuable data for climate research. MetOp-B is a European weather satellite that collects atmospheric data to improve weather forecasting and monitor climate patterns. Landsat 9, operated by NASA and the USGS, provides detailed images of Earth’s surface, allowing scientists to study land use, natural disasters, water resources and long-term environmental change.</p>
This activity highlighted how satellites continuously orbit the Earth, collecting information that helps us understand weather, climate and the changing environment. I think this would be an engaging classroom activity, as pupils could track satellites in real time and investigate their different purposes. It would also support STEM learning by combining science, geography, technology and digital skills while demonstrating how space technology benefits everyday life. The European Sentinel and MetOp satellites form part of major Earth observation programmes that provide essential data for weather forecasting, environmental monitoring and climate research.-
Hi Jacqui,
Thank you for sharing your response.
You have included a really interesting range of satellites, and it is clear that you got a lot out of the activity. As you highlighted, this would make a very engaging classroom activity, as pupils could track satellites in real time and then investigate what each satellite is doing. This would help build both their digital literacy and investigative skills. I also like your point about how space technology connects to everyday life, from weather forecasts to monitoring environmental change. This makes the activity even more meaningful for pupils.
Just a small technical note: some formatting code seems to have pasted into your post. Using “paste as plain text” or clearing the formatting before posting can help avoid those extra characters appearing.
I hope you enjoy the rest of the modules. Just a reminder to return and comment on someone else’s post in each forum, as this will help complete the course.
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