big dig

Most planetary excavation kits include one planet-shaped dig block, digging tools (usually a chisel and a brush), an educational poster, a unique explorer badge, and about five hidden gems or fossils to uncover.

Motorized dig trucks use batteries (example listed: 3 AA) and typically include motorized forward/reverse drive, bright lights and sounds, and controls—often a joystick—for lifting, lowering, and dumping actions.

Descriptions indicate the series is available in designs representing all eight planets of the Solar System; listings note collecting all 8 kits.

Listings and reviews position excavation toys as educational and STEM-focused, highlighting astronomy or science content, hands-on digging, and benefits such as fine-motor practice, hand–eye coordination, and paleontology-themed learning.