Just how do astronauts stay safe during moon landings? Here's an activity that allows investigators to use the engineering process to explore how shock absorbers protect astronauts during landing. Applying knowledge of gravity, force, and motion, future engineers design, test, and modify a landing craft using shock absorbers to give two marshmallow astronauts a safe landing. Participants engage in a guided post-activity discussion to reflect on the activity once complete.

Concepts

space exploration, moon exploration, force, engineering design, engineering practices, space travel

Show More Show Less

Instructional Ideas

• Arrange learners into collaborative learning groups of three to four
• Use an accordion-shaped folded spring and marshmallows to demonstrate how shock absorbers work

Classroom Considerations

• Collect materials in advance, ensuring adequate amounts for teams of three to four
• Review educator background information and challenge sheet before activity

Pros

• Designed as an NGSS-aligned activity
• Includes extension ideas for additional hands-on learning

Cons

• None