Prepare for the ultimate space adventure! In this exciting STEM incursion, students become aerospace engineers, astronauts and scientists as they investigate what it takes to survive on Mars. Through coding, engineering design, immersive virtual reality and scientific investigation, students tackle real-world challenges faced by space agencies while developing creativity, critical thinking and collaboration skills.
Mission 1 – Mars Rover Challenge
Students become mission controllers as they program Edison robots to navigate a Mars-themed challenge mat. Working in teams, they create, test and refine algorithms to guide their rover around craters, collect scientific samples and safely complete its mission across the Martian landscape.
Mission 2 – Mars Habitat Engineers
Students step into the role of aerospace engineers as they design and construct a model habitat capable of supporting life on Mars. Using a range of construction materials, they consider how astronauts would access food, water, oxygen, shelter and energy while living on the Red Planet.
Mission 3 – Explore Mars
Students embark on an immersive virtual reality expedition to the surface of Mars. As they explore its rocky terrain, towering volcanoes and deep canyons, they discover the unique challenges astronauts face when travelling and living on another planet.
Mission 4 – Martian Science Lab
Students become planetary scientists as they investigate a variety of rocks and “Martian” specimens using digital microscopes and magnifying glasses. They compare textures, colours and surface features while discussing how scientists analyse samples collected during space missions.
Mission 5 – Mission to Mars Design Challenge
Working collaboratively, students design an innovative solution that would help astronauts survive on Mars. Whether creating a new tool, transport system, food-growing solution or life-support invention, students sketch and present their ideas while applying the engineering design process to solve a real-world space challenge.
Students Will
- Develop computational thinking through coding challenges using Edison robots.
- Investigate the environmental conditions on Mars and the challenges of space exploration.
- Apply the engineering design process to create solutions for living on another planet.
- Explore the surface of Mars through immersive virtual reality.
- Observe and analyse rock specimens using scientific equipment.
- Strengthen collaboration, creativity and problem-solving through authentic STEM investigations.
- Gain an appreciation of how science, technology and engineering work together to support future space exploration.