Science and Engineering on the Moon Challenge
These NASA materials describe hands-on science and engineering challenges for students, using space exploration as an engaging context.
The activities are related to NASA's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter and NASA's Lunar Crater Observation and Sensing Satellite missions. Students design and build:
• an air-powered rocket;
• a shock-absorbing system that will protect two marshmallow "astronauts";
• a rubber band-powered rover;
• a cardboard crane for maximum load-lifting ability;
• a paper cup modified so that it can carry a marble down a zip line and drop it onto a target;
• a solar hot water heater to cause the greatest rise in temperature.
HEALTH and SAFETY
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Review
on 25th May 2012
Subject / curriculum links / skills: Physics / Engineering
Level / prior knowledge:…
Subject / curriculum links / skills: Physics / Engineering
Level / prior knowledge: KS2 to KS4
Student activities: Yes
Practical activities: Yes
Commentary: The materials used for the engineering tasks are easy to obtain but the build will challenge your students. The first two engineering challenges can be used a primary level as well as secondary. Ideas about motion, forces and energy are covered. Students are encouraged to design, test, evaluate and improve on their designs.
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Resource author
Resource by: NASA
Collections
The resource is part of ESERO-UK
- ESERO-UK
- Satellites, Launchers and Landers
- Science and Engineering on the Moon Challenge
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