Mission to Mars

Mission to Mars was designed to inspire 5th to 8th grade students in science and teach them about the research ideas related to developing life support systems for extended space travel. Authored by Julia Hains-Allen and Macon Beck, from the NASA Specialized Center of Research and Training in Advanced Life Support (ALS/NSCORT) at Purdue University, Mission to Mars introduces students to the complex issues involved with living in a habitat on Mars. The curriculum was designed in the inquiry based format to teach science concepts represented in the National Science Standards. Mission to Mars includes activities which investigate plant growth, ecosystems, water and waste treatments, engineering, recycling, and food production. Additionally, Mission to Mars has been classroom evaluated, and is currently being disseminated nationally through both formal education settings (schools) and informal educational settings (after school, 4-H, museums, science centers). Imagination Station is a cooperating partner in the dissemination of Mission to Mars in Indiana, funded through a Purdue University sub-contract of a NASA Exploration System Missions Directorate (ESMD) grant.

Educator workshops are available to schools, 4-H groups and other organizations that are interested in teaching the Mission to Mars module. Workshops may be held at your location or Imagination Station. Please call (765)420-7780 for more information.