Experience the Maine Solar System Model, the largest 3-D scale model of the solar system in the western hemisphere. Established by the University of Maine at Presque Isle and the northern Maine community, this model extends for nearly 100 miles along U.S. Route 1, from the Sun at UMPI to the dwarf planet Eris in Topsfield.

The MSS Model is the largest 3-D scale model of the solar system in the western hemisphere and the second largest such model in the world. Established by the University of Maine at Presque Isle and the northern Maine community, this model extends for nearly 100 miles along U.S. Route 1, from the Sun at UMPI to the dwarf planet Eris in Topsfield.

The model includes a large arc made of wood more than two stories high in a central stairwell as well as a two-dimensional image in the classroom building hallways that shows the curvature of the sun. Constructed by Claude Boucher, Charlie Holmquist, Al Kulp, and the rest of the UMPI Physical Plant staff. Painted by Charlie Holmquist.

Discover the Maine Solar System Model, the largest 3-D scale model of the solar system in the western hemisphere. The Sun Our Sun is a typical star, in its middle age. Temperatures in the Sun are hot enough to sustain fusion, which is where hydrogen atoms combine to form helium in a process that also releases energy in the form of light and heat.

Jupiter, the largest planet in the System, has a mostly gaseous composition. The atmosphere shows many storms, the most visible known as the Great Red Spot. There are many moons and a ring, but only four moons are visible at the scale of our Solar System model.

Saturn, like Jupiter, is mostly a gaseous planet and its most visible feature is a prominent set of rings, which are thought to be made of ice. Saturn has many moons, but only one (Titan) is large enough to be easily shown in the Solar System model.

Neptune has pronounced storm activity, including a Great Dark Spot that is similar to Jupiter’s Great Red Spot. Neptune’s many moons are too small for the scale of this model.

Located inside the Maine State Visitor Information Center in Houlton, 114 North St. (40 miles or 64.4 km from Sun).

May 1, 2000 · Since the formal unveiling on June 14, 2003, the Maine Solar System Model has served as an educational resource for the people of northern Maine and has attracted tourists from all over the country, and even the world, to Aroostook County.

Earth is perhaps the solar system’s most interesting planet. Atmospheric conditions allow for frequent movement of water in all three phases—solid, liquid, and gas. The planet’s 23 degree tilt produces seasonal changes and continents move over a somewhat liquid interior.