Learning Blade: Mars Colony Mission

thingiverse

Objective: To have students conceptualize the future of space travel and the colonization of Mars, specifically with a focus on the impact of 3D printing on that colonization's success. Description: - Students will put themselves in the position of being one of the first astronauts to arrive on Mars. In their attempt to colonize Mars, they bring with them a 3D printer to create items needed onsite instead of relying on supplies from Earth. Students will design and create an item that enhances their life on Mars. This could be anything from tools, equipment, or entertainment. Standards: NGSS: Overview and Background Mars is a prime target for space exploration due to advancements in technology by Space X, United Launch Alliance, NASA, and others. Current Mars rover missions indicate humans may set foot on the red planet within the next 30 years. The vast distance between Earth and Mars means those first astronauts will likely face a one-way trip or extended stay. To survive, they must bring supplies and have the ability to produce what they need once arriving on Mars. The example file for this mission is a 3-part trowel, which can be used for collecting soil samples and future greenhouse gardening. Lesson Plan and Activity Students will discuss and share their thoughts on establishing a human colony on Mars. They will learn about NASA's current goals for Mars exploration: Goal 1: Determine if life ever arose on Mars Goal 2: Characterize the climate of Mars Goal 3: Characterize the geology of Mars Goal 4: Prepare for human exploration of Mars Students will focus on Goal 4, learning more about the Mars Today: Mars Exploration Overview page. They can explore current robotic missions supporting scientific goals and read about astronauts testing 3D printing on the International Space Station. The students will then design their tool, toy, or equipment using TinkerCAD. Extensions include watching a video about 3D printing on the ISS and discussing its importance in space exploration. Materials Needed: - 3D print the Learning Blade Example file: 3 Part Trowel