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Heat & Temperature and Structures & Forces Final Project - Martian Habitat and Radiation Challenge
Heat & Temperature and Structures & Forces Final Project - Martian Habitat and Radiation Challenge
We built structures with specific parameters and a budget considering payload, safety and cost. Then we tested them for "radiation" and heat loss and improved the design with conductors and insulators. Using the Engineering Design Process we will:
Ask - How can we build a strong habitat using the least amount of materials possible to protect our colony on Mars?
Imagine - Using your prior knowledge or research all the possibilities come up with as many creative ideas as you can.
Plan - Design a Martian habitat (opaque) or greenhouse (translucent) structure that fits on the platform, is empty, and sealed to protect the astronauts and ecosystem inside. Test out materials to be lightweight and strong for the supports (straws, balsa, bamboo, wood) and cover (paper, tarpaulin, plastic, Mylar, cellophane). You must have at least one entrance (airlock) and 2 windows (habitat only).
Build your model. Make sure it is freestanding, the base is open and can be moved (not glued to a surface)
Test - put it on the wooden platform over the light. Take and "IR photo" (not a true IR photo, we cant afford a camera like that. Use this instead). Use a digital thermometer to record the temperatures at the seams, windows and door.
Improve - use insulators (cotton balls, tape, shower curtain, etc) and conductors (tin foil) to insulate or protect your structure. Add a habitat name and improve the aesthetic if you have extra time.
Re-test - record temperatures again
Present- Form a conclusion based on the analysis questions provided (TBA) and explain your journey through the Engineering Design Process.
This project was inspired by a lab I found online at https://www.teachingchannel.org/video/stem-lesson-ideas-heat-loss-project
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