Overview:Â
Middle school students will work together to plan and execute a fictional mission to the moon. They will be divided into five groups, each focusing on a different aspect of the mission. The goal is to design and present a comprehensive plan for a successful lunar mission, including building a base and conducting scientific research. Each group will manage a budget and present their findings and plans in a PowerPoint presentation.
Mission Integration
Responsibilities:
Coordinate all activities of other groups to ensure the mission's success.
Develop the overall mission timeline and key milestones.
Ensure all elements of the mission are integrated and work together seamlessly.
Oversee the allocation of resources and budgets.
Budget:
Allocate funds to each group and manage any financial adjustments. ( subject to negotiation)
Ensure all groups stay within budget constraints.
Presentation Topics:
Mission overview and objectives.
Integration plan and timeline.
Budget allocation and management.
Mission Transit
Responsibilities:
Design the spacecraft for transporting astronauts and cargo to and from the moon.
Plan the launch, lunar landing, and return journey.
Address propulsion, navigation, and safety measures.
Budget:
Costs associated with spacecraft design, fuel, and safety equipment.
Presentation Topics:
Spacecraft design and features.
Launch and landing plan.
Safety protocols and risk management.
Human Factors
Responsibilities:
Ensure the health, safety, and well-being of astronauts.
Design living quarters and life support systems for the lunar base.
Develop protocols for food, water, and medical care.
Budget:
Costs for life support systems, medical supplies, and astronaut training.
Presentation Topics:
Living quarters and life support systems.
Health and safety protocols.
Astronaut training and preparation.
Science and Surface Operations
Responsibilities:
Plan and conduct scientific experiments and research on the lunar surface.
Design and set up the lunar base, including laboratories and equipment.
Develop protocols for surface exploration and data collection.
Budget:
Costs for scientific equipment, laboratory setup, and exploration tools.
Presentation Topics:
Scientific objectives and experiments.
Lunar base setup and surface operations plan.
Data collection and analysis methods.
Strategic Communications
Responsibilities:
Manage public relations and communication strategies.
Create educational materials and updates for the public.
Document the mission progress and achievements.
Budget:
Costs for communication equipment, media production, and public outreach.
Presentation Topics:
Communication strategy and public outreach plan.
Educational materials and media content.
Mission documentation and highlights.
Initial Planning:
Introduction to the project and formation of groups.
Overview of group responsibilities and expectations.
Initial brainstorming sessions within groups.
Research and Design:
Conduct research related to each group's focus area.
Design elements such as spacecraft, living quarters, and scientific experiments.
Develop integration plans and timelines.
Budget Planning:
Each group creates a budget for their part of the mission.
Mission Integration group reviews and approves budgets.
Implementation:
Develop detailed plans and prototypes (models, diagrams, etc.).
Coordinate between groups to ensure integration.
Presentation Preparation:
Create PowerPoint presentations detailing each group's work.
Rehearse presentations and receive feedback from teachers/mentors.
Final Presentation:
Each group presents their plan to the class or a panel of judges.
Presentations should include visual aids, models, and detailed explanations.
Q&A session with the audience.
Creativity and Innovation:
Originality of designs and ideas.
Innovative solutions to challenges.
Technical Accuracy:
Scientific and engineering accuracy of plans.
Realistic consideration of constraints and limitations.
Collaboration and Integration:
Effective teamwork and communication within and between groups.
Seamless integration of different mission elements.
Budget Management:
Adherence to budget constraints.
Justification of expenditures.
Presentation Quality:
Clarity and professionalism of presentations.
Use of visual aids and effective communication of ideas.
This project will encourage middle school students to engage in STEM activities, practice teamwork, and develop presentation skills, all while sparking an interest in space exploration.