Seven STEM Lesson Plans Inspired by the Challenger Crew

In January 1986, the crew of the space shuttle Challenger set out on a mission inspired by education. They were engineers, scientists, educators, and problem-solvers — each bringing a unique background, discipline, and passion to space exploration. 

At Challenger Center, their legacy lives on through learning. To bring the passions of the Challenger STS-51L crew to life, we’re thrilled to share a new suite of free STEM lesson plans inspired by the interests and expertise of each of the seven Challenger crew members.  

Each lesson is accompanied by a crew member biography handout, giving students context about who these astronauts were and how their unique paths led them to space. Designed for students in grades 5–8, the lessons are flexible and can be adapted to meet different curriculum goals and student needs. They may be used individually, in part, as a complete unit, or in any order.

Dick Scobee: Launch Vehicle Design Challenge

Francis R. (Dick) Scobee, Challenger Mission Commander, was a U.S. Air Force pilot and aerospace engineer. Known for his dedication to aviation and leadership, he previously piloted a shuttle mission and was passionate about flight.

In Scobee’s Launch Vehicle Design Challenge, students are tasked with building a straw or paper rocket that travels the furthest or most accurately. They will:

1. Review Scobee’s role as a pilot and engineer.
2. Discuss key rocket parts and how launch angle affects trajectory.
3. Build rockets and test launches.
4. Record data and redesign for improvement.

Judith Resnik: Biomedical Circuitry Challenge

Judith Resnik, Challenger Mission Specialist, was a biomedical and electrical engineer who focused on the application of circuits and computer systems in space. She was the first Jewish woman and the second American woman in space, and a strong advocate for women in STEM. 

In Resnik’s Biomedical Circuitry Challenge, students simulate a biomedical device that tracks a person’s pulse using circuits or analog models. They will:

1. Be introduced to Resnik’s engineering and medical tech background.
2. Learn how a pulse monitor works.
3. Build a device that simulates pulse tracking.
4. Present how this helps astronauts or doctors.

Michael Smith: Simulated Spacecraft Landing

Michael Smith, Challenger Pilot, was a Navy test pilot and engineer. He was responsible for controlling shuttle systems and assisting in landing and was known for precision, testing protocols, and training.

In Smith’s Simulated Spacecraft Landing lesson plan, students test parachute or glider designs for safe spacecraft landings. They will:

1. Learn about Smith’s role as a test pilot.
2. Discuss how spacecraft slow down and land.
3. Build and test landing devices.
4. Evaluate accuracy and redesign.

Ronald McNair: Light & Sound Waves Exploration

Ronald McNair, Challenger Mission Specialist, held a Ph.D. in physics and was a pioneer in laser science. He was also an accomplished saxophonist and worked to inspire students from underrepresented backgrounds to pursue science.

In McNair’s Light & Sound Waves Exploration lesson plan, students explore properties of light and sound, linking to music and lasers. They will:

1. Learn about McNair’s love for physics and music.
2. Explore pitch using rubber bands or water glasses.
3. Investigate light refraction or reflection.
4. Draw wave diagrams.

Ellison Onizuka: Design a Satellite for a Mission

Ellison Onizuka, Challenger Mission Specialist, was the first Asian-American in space. He was a systems engineer in the Air Force and was known for his problem-solving skills, especially in satellite and space systems.

In Onizuka’s Satellite Design Challenge, students create a satellite model that meets specific mission goals. They will:

1. Explore Onizuka’s background in aerospace systems.
2. Choose a satellite mission.
3. Design and label the systems: power, sensors, comms, etc.
4. Present their satellite design.

Gregory Jarvis: Fluid Behavior in Microgravity

Gregory Jarvis, Challenger Payload Specialist, was an engineer at Hughes Aircraft Company, specializing in how fluids behave in microgravity—essential for fuel, water, and biological systems aboard spacecraft.

In Jarvis’s Fluid Behavior in Microgravity lesson plan, students investigate how water moves differently in space. They will:

1. Learn about fluid experiments in microgravity.
2. Set up a capillary action demonstration.
3. Observe and record how water climbs the paper towel.
4. Relate findings to water movement in space.

Christa McAuliffe: Time Capsule for Future Classrooms

Christa McAuliffe, Challenger Teacher in Space, was a high school social studies teacher selected as the first civilian and teacher to fly into space. Her mission was to make space relatable to students and share the journey with classrooms across the country.

In McAuliffe’s Time Capsule for Future Classrooms lesson plan, students design a time capsule that could survive either on Earth or in space to teach students 100 years in the future. They will:

1. Learn about Christa McAuliffe and her mission as a teacher.
2. Research time capsules and space exposure.
3. Brainstorm what messages, lessons, or STEM tools would be valuable in the future.
4. Design and pack your capsule.
5. Write or record an explanation of your choices.

More Free Lesson Plans

Challenger Center offers a full suite of ready-made, free lesson plans featuring engaging activities that help students explore physical science, life science, Earth and space science, and engineering topics.

All lesson plans include educational materials, experiments, and/or activities that include a supplies list, set-up guidelines, and step-by-step instructions. Many lessons use common household items.