Conquer It

Now, view video clip #3, Destination Dwarf Planet: Dawn Approaches CeresOpens a new window, and think about the central idea. (This video has no audio so you can use this text version that describes the videoopens in new window to help check your understanding.)

Review these keys ideas from video clip # 3:

  • NASA’s Dawn mission will be the first to explore a dwarf planet.
  • The spacecraft, which uses ion propulsion, will arrive at Ceres on March 6, 2015.
  • Ceres is the largest body in the main asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter.
  • Ceres rotates in this sped-up movie taken by Dawn from a distance of 29,000 miles (46,000 kilometers) on Feb. 19, 2015.
  • Dawn will begin to orbit the dwarf planet on March 6, after being captured by its gravity.

Reread the Newsela article Scientists eager to see close-ups of Ceres, a Texas-sized dwarf planetOpens a new window if necessary, and complete the activity below.