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Learning about Smith’s role as a test pilot.
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Discussing how spacecrafts slow down and land.
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Building and testing landing devices.
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Evaluating accuracy and redesign.
Free Lesson
Simulated Spacecraft Landing
Objective: Test parachute or glider designs for safe spacecraft landings.
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Grade Level 5-8
Engineering
Stay In My Classroom
Michael Smith's Lesson Plan
A Navy test pilot and engineer, Smith was responsible for controlling shuttle systems and assisting in landing. He was known for precision, testing protocols, and training.
In his lesson, students will test parachute or glider designs for safe spacecraft landings.
They will achieve this by:
Crew-Inspired STEM Learning
To bring the passions of the Challenger STS-51L crew to life, Challenger Learning Center of Lake Erie West created a suite of free STEM lesson plans inspired by the interests and disciplines of each of the seven crew members.
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.
Explore the other six lesson plans:
In Partnership
Challenger Crew lesson plans were developed by Challenger Learning Center of Lake Erie West. Information in Challenger Crew bios is courtesy of NASA Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center (Dec. 2003).
