This document outlines the steps for a space mission simulation activity. Students will be assigned to astronaut crews to research a planet. Each crew member is responsible for collecting data on different planetary characteristics. Finally, the crews will present their findings to their peers and mission control. The activity aims to teach students about the planets in our solar system through collaborative research and presentation.

1. SPACE MISSION

4. Know your destination (planet)

5. Name your mission and design a patch (badge)

7. Distance from the sun (How many kilometers?)

8. Diameter (What is the distance across in your planet?)

9. Atmosphere (What gases are in the atmosphere?)

10. Temperature (How hot or cold is it?)

11. Composition (What is your planet made of?)

13. Present your data as a crew to your peers and Mission Control.

15. (3 or 4 astronauts)

16. Design a patch for your mission. To learn how, click on the following link for directions on Creating a Crew Patch

17. Take your Data Collection Sheets.

18. Decide which data sheet each crew member will be responsible for completing with information about your planet destination.

19. You are now ready to start collecting data. Remember, only write brief notes and short sentences.

21. Use the Crew Checklist to ensure you have completed all the steps of your task.

22. Complete a self-evaluation sheet.

23. Make a mural to share your mission.