Would you like to visit Mars? At one time this would have been a question to engage in hypothetical thinking, but now, it could be a real possibility. According to the Washington Post, NASA expects that trips to Mars may be possible in the next 20 to 25 years. In fact, they have launched an exciting competition calling companies, universities and anybody to build models of habitats for Mars.
And if you were to go, what would you bring? Some baggies to collect Mars sand? A good pair of shoes? Camera (of course)? It is an interesting thought to play with. Thus in this post I am referencing the Washington Post article Where to stay on Mars? Robots could create living quarters before humans arrive. The article is featured in the Kids Post, so the vocabulary is relatively simple. And the subject matter may spark some interesting discussion about basic needs, isolation, and exploration.
Pre discussion
- Would you like to go to Mars? Why?
- What do you think it will be like? Dry, hot, cold, lonely, weird, exciting?
The article: Washington Post Where to stay on Mars?
Questions
- To get the gist of the article, do a series of Tell Backs for each section
- What are some of the things that have to be planned in order to make this possible (food, habitat, etc…)?
- What is the habitat competition all about?
- What kind of entertainment would you bring if you were to stay a year?
- What would you put in your suitcase?
- How do you think visiting Mars will change life on Earth?
Have a good trip!