While exploring space is out of the question for most who don’t aspire to become an astronaut, visitors to downtown Gainesville can gain a new understanding of the planets through a simple stroll.

A walking tour of the Solar System Scale Model will begin at 10 a.m. Saturday, April 2, in downtown Gainesville.

The tour will begin at the model of the sun, which is at the southeast end of the square. It will proceed along Main Street to Terrace Park and Longwood Park. It will end in Longwood Park at the intersection of John Morrow Parkway and Pearl Nix Parkway. The model of the dwarf planet Pluto is at a picnic pavilion in the park, close to a playground.

The total distance covered by participants who complete the tour will be two miles. Those who do not wish to walk back should arrange for transportation.

Retired astronomy teacher Frank Lock will guide the tour. Questions can be sent to him at fasterlock@att.net or by calling 941-475-1578.

For more information, visit northgeorgiaastronomers.org.