Mission to Mars excursion

Year 9 Science Elective - Mission to Mars

During Weeks 7 and 8 of Term 4, the Year 9 Earth in our Universe Elective classes had the opportunity to attend the 'Mission to Mars' program at the Victorian Space Science Education Centre in Strathmore. 

In this day-long excursion, students took part in a hands-on simulation to Mars where they undertook the roles of astronauts on the Martian surface and scientists working in mission control. As astronauts students donned space-suits and surveyed, collected samples and performed experiments on the Martian surface while communicating with mission control who had their hands full monitoring the astronauts vital signs, environmental conditions and trouble shooting problems (many involving mathematics) as they arose. 

The excursion gave student's insight into how much works goes into space travel and the importance of Science and Mathematics in making things run smoothly. Overall, a very exciting day out!