In a scaled-down diagram of the solar system where Earth is represented by the size of a pea, the vast distances between celestial bodies become evident. For example, Jupiter would need to be situated over a thousand feet away from Earth, illustrating the immense distances that exist in space. This scale helps to visualize the relative sizes and distances of the planets in our solar system.
Furthermore, the quote highlights how small Pluto would appear, about the size of a bacterium, making it virtually invisible at a distance of a mile and a half from the scaled Earth. This comparison emphasizes not only the size of the planets but also the incredible expanses of space that separate them, allowing a better understanding of the solar system's vastness and the challenges in perceiving distant celestial objects.