Students use 21st-century learning skills and technologies to support a colony of humans on Mars. They'll investigate how to best meet needs for food, water, power and a safe atmosphere using real research.

Next Generation Science Standards

Science and Engineering Practices:

• Asking questions and defining problems
• Developing and using models
• Planning and carrying out investigations
• Analyzing and interpreting data
• Constructing explanations and designing solutions
• Engaging in argument from evidence
• Obtaining, evaluating and communicating information

Crosscutting Concepts:

• Patterns
• Energy and matter
• Structure and function

Disciplinary Core Ideas:

PS 3: Energy
LS 2: Ecosystems
ESS 1: Earth's place in the universe
ESS 3: Earth and human activity
ETS 1: Engineering design
ETS 2: Links among engineering, technology, science and society

Lab goals

Students will:

• Explore STEM with a focus on NASA research, missions, goals and aims.
• Communicate effectively with peers and adult role models and practice 21st century science and technology skills.
• Work collaboratively to tackle many of the same challenges that NASA scientists are confronting themselves in the effort to travel to and inhabit Mars.
• Engage in inquiry-based and hands-on science learning experiences.