Astronomy (4 of 4): Exploration

• Explore the missions to each of our planets.
• Understand what each mission taught us about the planet.
• Understand the amount of time these explorations take.

Space exploration uses the fields of astronomy and technology to explore our solar system and beyond. Technology ranges from unmanned space probes to manned rocket and shuttle missions. In 1957, Sputnik was launched into outer space. This was the first artificial satellite sent out past Earth. Since then all planets have had missions visit them, collecting data about the atmosphere and surface, taking pictures and learning about the birth of our solar system. In his lesson, students will discuss some important missions, see some of the vehicles and probes sent to space, and even go to the surface of Mars to look at the rivers that have been found on the planet. Field trips include a 360 view of the Delta IV launch and Mars Rover Perseverance first view of Mars.

1. Start in the spaceship observatory.
2. Go outside and look at each planet. Discuss how they have been visited and how many missions have gone to each.
3. Field trip to Venus in 360. Look at its surface.
4. See Perseverance Rover first view of Mars from NASA website.
5. Field trip to see Saturn's rings in 360.
6. Travel to surface of Mars. Look at Mars Rovers. Discuss their explorations.
7. Take students to a different area of Mars and show them what "life" is being looked for. molecules and bacteria.
8. Finish with a 360 experience of the Delta IV takeoff.

Engage has several space vehicle IFXs that i also used. They have the Mars Rovers. Saturn video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZazPD_IHHoQ Curiosity Rover footage https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X2UaFuJsqxk   I googled videos while in the headset and found the Perserverance footage and Venus VR 360. In the 360 room, Engage has the Delta launch.