As scientists increase our understanding of the universe, the more varied and surprising we find it is. Exoplanets are no exception!

When astronomers first started searching for planets around other stars, it was thought other stars’ families of planets probably resembled our Sun and its planets. However, when astronomers started confirming planets orbiting other stars, they were very surprised to discover the variety of planet families, almost all of which looked very different than our own solar system. 

This guide features one unusual planet family found around the star Upsilon Andromedae. Explore that family, find out how to see this distant sun, and explore how to make your own solar system in this guide!

In the Guide for October:

• Theme: Are All Planet Families Like Ours?
• Sky Feature: Upsilon Andromedae
• Try This!
• Activity: Planet Families - Build a Solar System
• Connect to NASA Science

Please note that there are two versions of the Guide. One is full-color for use during the day, and the other version features a red overlay for use at night to preserve your night vision. . Use Adobe Acrobat Reader to view these guides, if possible.