Virtual Mission
Observation Earth
Mission Goal: Build new satellite technologies to monitor data from Earth.
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Grade Level 6-8
Earth and Space Science
Stay In My Classroom
How is climate change impacting our planet?
Earth-monitoring sensors on the International Space Station are outdated and need to be replaced with new, state-of-the-art hardware.
Your students will work together to capture a cargo craft using a robotic arm, monitor astronauts during a spacewalk as they install the new sensors, and analyze data from Earth-monitoring satellites. They’ll collect and analyze data, program robotic arms, and monitor astronaut vitals. The new sensors will collect data on Earth processes and events taking place on our planet.
As the crew members complete mission objectives, they’ll communicate with each other while monitoring real-time events on Earth. It’s critical that the crew maintain communications to ensure they can respond to any emergencies should they arise.
Crew members will help protect people and the environment by monitoring global events and predicting outcomes. The data retrieved from this mission are critical for scientists as they continue to investigate our Earth and how it is changing.
Featuring Kenneth Harris II, Senior Project Engineer, The Aerospace Corporation
Kick off your Earth and space science unit with our interactive Observation Earth simulation, where students experience real-world STEM careers, and are placed into teams to conduct research and collaborate to find solutions to urgent challenges.
While Observation Earth primarily focuses on Earth and space science themes, it also integrates engineering topics.
Integrate our pre- and post-mission activities into your lesson to expand students’ understanding of space science and technology.
Learning Objectives
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Study Earth processes and events, both natural and anthropogenic
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Apply geometric calculations to real-world problems
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Collaborate with peers to achieve a common goal
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Enhance scientific vocabulary
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Approximate program time: 1 hour
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Pre- and post-lesson activities available
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Closed captioning available
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Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) aligned
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Common Core State Standards (CCSS) aligned
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Internet connection required
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Device with audio/video capability required
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No personal student data collected
In Partnership
Observation Earth was developed in partnership with Challenger Learning Center at Wheeling University.
Pre- and post-mission activities were made in partnership with NASA and the National Institute of Aerospace.
