Martian Impact

Explore the metric system and unit conversions, and answer why it's important for engineers for space missions! Design and Test a model spacecraft! Analyze the accuracy and precision of measurements. Calculate the properties of matter including density and so much more!

This Launch level kit includes a full-color student workbook and a detailed teacher guide, with step-by-step instructions for both hands-on and reading-based activities designed to engage students in physics and math. Both teacher and student will be able to open the box and start within minutes, and the kit will provide over 17 hours of engaging learning.

• Learn about a costly mistake on a mission to Mars.
• Learn about the foundations and conversions between systems of measurements.
• Investigate how precision and accuracy can inform the design of spacecraft.
• Explore properties of matter that must be considered in engineering. Design and launch their own spacecraft.

Use the Martian Impact kit to answer questions such as:

• How do engineers control spacecraft without a pilot?
• Why are there different systems of measurement?
• What is the difference between accuracy and precision?
• How do various materials affect the design of a spacecraft?

• They understand basic forces and motion.
• They have basic algebra skills.
• They are interested in space missions.

The following are Science Unlocked kits we suggest your student has completed prior to doing this kit:

• Controlling Collisions
• Newton's Notions

Martian Impact kit is a part of the Science Unlocked Launch series and is recommended middle and high school students in grades 8-12.

Interested in learning more? Check out our Student Workbook Sample and Teacher Guide Sample!  

Items included in the kit:

• 1 Aluminum Foil Sheet
• 2 Cardboard Craft Tube
• 3 Chenille Stems, Black
• 3 Chenille Stems, White
• 3 Craft Sticks
• 1 Density Cylinders Set
• 1 Graduated Cylinder
• 1 Box of Paper Clips
• 2 Plastic Bags
• 10 Rubber Bands
• 1 Masking Tape
• 1 Solar System Sheet
• 1 Spring Scale
• 2 Straws, 0.15-inch diameter
• 2 Straws, clear plastic
• 2 Straws, neon
• 1 String
• 1 Tape Measure
• 3 Tongue Depressors

• Calculator
• Colored pencils or markers
• Household objects and furniture to measure
• Scissors

• Learning outcome: Learn how measurements and conversions help scientists and engineers design technological solutions to problems in physics.
• NGSS science standards alignment
• HS-PS2-3 Apply scientific and engineering ideas to design, evaluate, and refine a device that minimizes the force on a macroscopic object during a collision.