Recommended for grades 11 to 13, and suitable from grade 10
Mars in 3D is only one of many fascinating examples from the space field. Credit: DLR/Gossmann
Experiments undertaken without the disruptive influence of gravity, monitoring Earth from space, or explore strange new worlds where no man has gone before – space activities are of key importance for numerous applications on Earth, and also utterly fascinating for many people. During a day devoted to “Space” experiments students can, for example have a 3D look at Mars and its gigantic craters, volcanos and dried up river beds, almost close enough to touch. In the process they learn quite a lot about the dramatic history of our neighbouring red planet and about the modern technologies employed in research. They can also hold genuine extraterrestrial material in their hands and investigate it with microscopes. We can even offer microgravity experiments.
Experiments:
Depending on the size of the student group, the "Space" module consists of three to six different experiments selected from the list below. For more information please click on the experiment.
Special requests made in advance will be met if possible.
The day’s programme:
Extraterrestrial material under the microscope at DLR_School_Lab Berlin. Credit: DLR/Gossmann
The “Space” module includes an introduction, three experiment periods and a concluding discussion. In the introduction the students are acquainted with the German Aerospace Center and learn many things, especially about planetary research at DLR Berlin. At this point and throughout the course of the day any questions about DLR research fields and programs to encourage the next generation of young research talent can also be discussed. During the lunch break a meal can be purchased in the Humboldt University cafeteria for around €3 to €6. At the end of the day we ask the students for feedback on their visit.
Time schedule:
| 09:00 am |
Welcome, introduction, division into small groups |
| 09:30 |
1st experiment period |
| 10:50 |
Break |
| 11:05 |
2nd experiment period |
| 12:25 pm |
Lunch break in the Humboldt University cafeteria |
| 1:20 |
3rd experiment period |
| 2:40 |
Concluding discussion |
| 3:00 |
End of visit |
All times are approximate. By prior arrangement the program can begin later.
Preparation:
It is not necessary to prepare for the visit by covering the topic in the classroom beforehand. The DLR_School_Lab staff will introduce the students to the subjects in a way suitable to their age level. You might just encourage your class to look forward to a fascinating day of experiments in which they will be able to do many things on their own and gain an authentic impression of research at DLR.