Exploring the Cosmos: Grade 9 Quiz

What is an asterism?

• A small group of stars that form a pattern within a constellation

• A large group of stars that form a galaxy

• A type of planet

• A type of moon

Which of the following is an example of an asterism?

• Orion's Belt

• The Milky Way

• The Andromeda Galaxy

• The Big Dipper

Which constellation is known as the "Hunter"?

• Ursa Major

• Orion

• Cassiopeia

• Scorpius

Which planet is known as the "Red Planet"?

• Venus

• Mars

• Jupiter

• Saturn

What is the largest planet in our solar system?

• Earth

• Mars

• Jupiter

• Saturn

Which planet is closest to the Sun?

• Venus

• Earth

• Mercury

• Mars

What causes a solar eclipse?

• The Earth passing between the Sun and the Moon

• The Moon passing between the Sun and the Earth

• The Sun passing between the Earth and the Moon

• The Earth passing between the Moon and the Sun

What is the term for the shadow cast by the Earth on the Moon during a lunar eclipse?

• Umbra

• Penumbra

• Antumbra

• Corona

Which phase of the Moon is necessary for a solar eclipse to occur?

• Full Moon

• New Moon

• First Quarter

• Last Quarter

Which phase of the Moon is necessary for a lunar eclipse to occur?

• Full Moon

• New Moon

• First Quarter

• Last Quarter