Students observe how measurements are made with different instruments.  In this remote sensing lesson students investigate the physical state of surfaces including the surfaces of the solar system. 

Students calculate the strength of gravitational force exerted on the moon by the sun and earth. In this orbital lesson students view a demonstration to see the gravitational forces between bodies.

Students examine how variations in temperature are due to the Sun and length of day.  In this solar lesson students complete a lab activity using thermometers and artificial sunlight to see how the earth is heated.

Students measure distances using parallax. In this math activity, students explain how this method helped astronomers with their studies of the solar system. They determine the length of their arm using parallax and compare it with other...

In this ion rocket engines worksheet, students read about how heavy atoms are used to create the thrust in rocket engines. They solve 5 problems including determining the speed of atoms in a satellite, finding the average acceleration of...

In this ice on Mercury worksheet, students read about the data collected from the NASA Messenger and the Arecibo Radio Telescope indicating the possibility of ice on Mercury. Students solve 6 problems including finding the scale of the...

Students simulate different spacecraft missions using materials provided. In this space science lesson, students observe and record a planetary model's features from a distance. They relate this activity to scientists' space exploration...

High schoolers investigate how the Earth's rotation affect the length of day. For this earth science lesson, students construct a sighting apparatus and record their observations over a few days. They analyze data collected and formulate...

Students study the Gregorian Calendar and its historical significance.In this calendar lesson students create a calendar design for an imaginary planet.

Students, working independently and in groups, apply the distance formula to practical situations. After solving various problems, students in pairs design coordinate planes from the school blue print to measure the distance from the...

Students construct a pendulum using a washer and thin fishing line. In this earth science lesson plan, students simulate Earth's rotation using the pendulum bob and swivel chair. They explain how this activity proves that the Earth is...

Students construct an interferometer using a simple telescope. In this physics lesson, students explain how light waves create the fringe patterns. They observe patterns made by different objects in the sky and compare them.

Students simulate how the Moon causes ocean tides. In this earth science instructional activity, students calculate gravitational acceleration using a mathematical formula. They compare the force of attraction between the Earth, Moon and...

Students identify what adaptation is and to research a specific mollusk. They also identify and interpret how animals get their common and scientific name and why it is Latin. Finally, students draw their shell (mollusk) and name their...

Students create a calendar for an imaginary planet. In this earth science lesson, students analyze the errors on the different calendars used on Earth. They present their work in class.

Students conduct a series of experiments on magnetic levitation. In this physics lesson, students discover how Maglev trains operate. They explain how magnetism make even simple objects levitate.

Students explore how Maglev trains work. In this technology lesson, students discuss the pros and cons of Maglev compared to conventional trains. They build a simple Maglev train model.

Students examine an article on a space capsule and explore NASA.  In this space exploration lesson students brainstorm the pros and cons of space exploration, then rehearse a sketch and present it to the class. 

Students read and study an article then answer questions on Saturn.  In this investigative lesson students identify ways space exploration has helped humanity and then they search the Internet for space pictures and sketch a drawing...

Fourth graders study an article about Saturn.  For this investigative lesson students discuss the article and complete an activity that asks them what question they would pose about Saturn. 

Students simulate driving a rover on the surface of Mars. In this space science activity, students identify the challenges experienced by astronauts in operating a vehicle. They recommend some changes to make their 'rover' better.

NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory at the California Institute of Technology is "the lead US center for robotic exploration of the solar system."

Hands-on challenge to add a jet-propulsion system such as a balloon to a Sky Glider blimp so it flies straight and far under its own power. Provides full list of materials with ideas on how to build, test, and redesign it if necessary....

This viewer allows you to see ocean heat storage from space. These images indicate sea surface heights. Learn more about El Nino and La Nina and how they have profound effects on world climate.