Sixth graders at Bronxville Middle School embarked on an exciting educational adventure during their field trip to the Buehler Challenger & Science Center in Paramus, New Jersey, on June 1. They took on the roles of astronauts, geologists, biologists, robotic and weather scientists, navigators and engineers while participating in an immersive simulated space mission to Mars.
“Throughout the simulation, they faced realistic challenges that required problem-solving, teamwork and quick decision-making as they worked toward completing their mission objectives,” science teacher Frank Viggiani said. “They worked together to protect a Mars research station, investigate the Martian environment and solve emergencies. The students were divided between a spacecraft and mission control, with everyone playing a critical role in mission success.”
As part of the challenge, the communications officer communicated with astronauts on a microphone and headset for the whole crew to hear. The medical officer performed tests on the crew while the probe team was building the probe to launch to a site on Mars. The weather team worked on tracking dust storms, and the geology team examined rock samples from Mars. The life support team kept the crew safe on the spacecraft, and at the mission control, the students communicated with their partners on the spacecraft.
Prior to their visit, the students learned about the Challenger tragedy in 1986, as well as Christa McAuliffe, the teacher on board the shuttle. They also created mission patches and practiced reading task cards like astronauts.
“Seeing the students so engaged in their role on the spacecraft and mission control is what the Challenger trip is all about,” Viggiani said. “Knowing we are helping to continue Christa McAuliffe’s mission of teaching lessons in space 40 years after the Challenger disaster makes the entire experience so worthwhile for all the students and teachers. The students leave the mission talking about how much fun that was.”
To participate in the missions, the students filled out job applications, wrote persuasive letters and attached them to their resumes.
“The hands-on activities reinforced concepts the students have been studying in science while inspiring curiosity about future careers in STEM,” Viggiani said. “Some of our students are really interested in science. This Challenger trip might be the spark for a student to pursue an interest in one aspect of STEM.”
In addition, the students had the opportunity to connect virtually with former NASA astronaut Scott Parazynski in May, which was arranged by June Scobee Rodgers, the wife of the commander on the Challenger shuttle tragedy. He shared his experiences and provided insight into what it’s like to participate in emergency spacewalks. He was also the doctor on board when John Glenn returned to space as the oldest astronaut.