The exhibit uses the powers of ten to illustrate the relative scale of our cosmos. Along the walkway, the Hayden Sphere is used as a scale reference; for example, at one station, if the Sphere represents the Sun, the model Earth mounted on the walkway's rail is only 10 inches across. At this scale visitors can see how more than a million Earths could fit within the Sun. Additionally, other sciences are integrated into the displays. Among the comparisons visitors can make at different points along the Scales of the Universe, using the Sphere as the reference point, are:

• If the Sphere is the size of a raindrop, then a rail-mounted model is the relative size of a red blood cell;
• If the Sphere is the size of a red blood cell, then a model is the relative size of a rhinovirus;
• If the Sphere is the size of a rhinovirus, then a model is the relative size of a hydrogen atom.

Learning firsthand about relative size in astronomy, molecular biology, and particle physics, visitors gain a better understanding of our place in the universe. Four interactive stations, one on each side of the walkway, provide visitors with a comprehensive overview of the entire exhibit, more in-depth information, and connections to exhibit topics explored in other exhibits in the Rose Center, including information on objects at all size scales, units of measurement, powers of ten, and other key themes.