If you’ve ever wanted to experience space travel and a sense of just how big our solar system is, all you need to do is take a drive to Aroostook County. Northern Maine is the proud home of the Maine Solar System Model. Just travel along U.S. Route 1—all celestial bodies, except the Pluto model located in the Houlton Visitor Information Center and the Sun, are visible from the road. The model extends for nearly 100 miles from the Sun at the University of Maine at Presque Isle to the dwarf planet Eris in Topsfield. If you take in the whole solar system, you’ll see the Sun, nine planets, seven moons, and three dwarf planets.

Each mile along the way equals 1 astronomical unit (distance from the Earth to Sun, or 93 million miles). Since the MSS Model was unveiled in 2003, it has served as an educational resource and attracted tourists from all over the country, and even the world, to Aroostook County. The model has been featured in national media and publications such as Smithsonian, Air and Space, National Public Radio, Science, and AAA New England Journey. The installation stands as a testament to northern Maine and its commitment to education, community, and the can-do attitude that made the model possible.

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Road Trip Itinerary: Combine Science and Adventure

Your journey begins at the planet Pluto in Houlton. This first planet model is the only one that is inside and you will find it at the Houlton Visitor Information Center at the North Street Shopping Plaza. You should take some time to explore the shops and monuments in Houlton's Historic Market Square and fuel up for your adventure through the galaxy with delicious breakfast pastries, soups, and sandwiches from Sadie's Bakery. Save these sandwhiches for a picnic lunch at one of the planet parks on your journey.

From there, follow US Route 1 north through the communities of Bridgewater and Westfield, stopping along the way to explore the many pullouts and three-dimensional models of planets such as Neptune and Uranus.

As you make your way from Mars Hill to Presque Isle, you'll have the opportunity to visit Saturn, Jupiter, Mars, Earth, Venus, and Mercury. Each planet features its own pocket park complete with benches, informational panels, and great back drops for the perfect selfie! Take your time exploring each of the pullouts and models, and be sure to make one final stop at the University of Maine at Presque Isle to see the model of the sun. The sun is the newest addition to the solar system and stands 23' tall. The three-dimensional sun model as the newest addition to its Maine Solar System Model, and was first unveiled on April 8, 2024 on the same day as the Great North American Total Solar Eclipse.

After a day of exploring the wonders of our solar system and traveling north from Houlton, be sure to check out Ferris BBQ in Presque Isle for dinner. Try their BBQ Pulled Pork Poutine or Smoked Wings for a delicious meal that will satisfy any appetite. Poutine is a staple on the menus here and often something visitors love to seek out on their dining adventures here.

Make the most of your family road trip

• Print the brochure of the Maine Solar System Model
• Don't get lost! Scout out your route on the map
• Plan ahead by browsing the official website
• Consider a small donation to keep the solar system spinning and the pocket parks in great shape!

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A Night Under the Stars

As the day comes to a close, leave behind the bright lights of the city and head towards your lodging for the night. Along the route, plenty of options are available, from cozy bed and breakfasts to rustic cabins and camping sites. Make sure to choose a spot with a clear view of the night sky, so you can enjoy sitting fireside while gazing into the night sky. In this remote part of Maine, away from the hustle and bustle of the city, the stars and planets are especially spectacular.

Must-Visit Science Experience

The next morning, be sure to add the Francis Malcolm Science Center in Easton to your itinerary. This center is a must-visit destination for a unique and immersive science experience. The center offers year-round opportunities for exploration in both life and physical sciences, with a particular emphasis on astronomy and the natural environment. With an interactive planetarium and weekly programming for all ages, it's the perfect way to round out your interstellar journey through Aroostook County.

Whether you're an astronomy lover or simply looking for a unique adventure, the Maine Solar System Model is a must-see attraction that will leave you in awe.

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