Imagine how different our society would be if the Earth had no fossil fuels and we had to live in self-contained environments. These are the challenges humans will face when we decide to colonize Mars. The purpose of this project is for 7th and 8th grade science students to gain a better understanding of alternative energies and increase their exposure to engineering, technology, and robotics. This is accomplished by collaborating on the design and construction of a hybrid of a self contained Mars base and a very long range traverse vehicle (VLTV). These vehicles serve as a mobile habitat that allows astronauts to explore different areas of the Mars surface for extended periods of time. The combined base and the VLTV are powered by various types of alternative energy sources.

 

The objectives for this mission are to explore the surface of mars for ideal permanent colony locations, test technologies and procedures required to support humans over extended periods of time on Mars, and improve our knowledge of the planet’s environment. Just like the early explorers that came to America, astronauts that colonize Mars must be able to use its natural resources to sustain a long-term or permanent presence on Mars.

 

This project will be integrated within the science curriculum over a period of several months. Science topics that support this project within the curriculum are measurement, geology, weather and climate, energy, energy resources, chemistry, and many other physical science concepts. In addition to science content, the collaboration among students will foster creativity, critical thinking, problem solving, communication through technology, and decision making. These are important 21st Century skills in which all students should become proficient.