Six Minutes of Terror
Spacecrafts, like this Orion spacecraft, are designed for safety and protection.Copyright Wikimedia Commons http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/f/f3/Orion_lunar_orbit_%28Sept_2006%29.jpg
This lesson discusses how each component of a spacecraft is specifically designed so that a rover can land safely in six minutes. Also, students learn how common, everyday materials and technology, like nylon, polyester and airbags, are used in space-age technology.
Engineers are experts at designing equipment and technologies for safety and protection. To endure the massive forces of entry and landing on Mars, engineers designed an aeroshell, parachute, rock thrusters, lander and airbag system. In our everyday lives, we see the benefits gained from smart engineering design: vehicle air bags, advanced braking systems, traffic lights, circuit breakers, GFI electrical outlets, factory air filters, motorcycle helmets, etc.
Figure 1. An aeroshell entering the Martian atmosphere.Copyright NASA 2004
After this lesson, students should be able to:
- Describe the engineering process and steps of landing the rover safely.
- Identify how changes in kinetic energy must be controlled to ensure the craft isn't crushed.
- Identify several components of a Mars lander designed by engineers.
- Recognize that at extremely high speeds, atmospheric friction causes intense heating.
- Identify the different materials used for the parachute.