Exploration of the Solar System

Objectives: Students will develop a knowledge of the spacecraft that have allowed us to explore the solar system. Students will develop an understanding of the expansion of our knowledge of the solar system through the images provided by spacecraft.
Focus Question: What spacecraft have been developed to explore the solar system and how have they allowed us to better view the planets?
Length:	45 minutes
Grade Level:	4-6
NASA Mission:	Science Exploration Systems
National Science Standards:	Science as Inquiry Understandings about scientific inquiry (K-8) Earth and Space Science Objects in the sky (K-4) Earth history (5-8) Earth in the solar system (5-8) Science and Technology Understandings about science and technology (K-8)
NASA Presenter:	Daniel R. Glover, PE, Ph.D. - Daniel.R.Glover@grc.nasa.gov
Advanced Preparation:	Visit us here and then review the PowerPoint presentation (source file). Grades 5-8: Complete the pre-conference assessment and activity created by Lea Einsporn and Dana Flenner, University of Akron, Akron, Ohio. Click here to access the introduction and to link to the materials.*
The event covers the history of space exploration with descriptions of the spacecraft and pictures of the planets taken by the spacecraft. The pictures show the evolution of our understanding of the Solar System. The presentation can be geared to certain grade levels. Suggested post-conference activities: Complete the grades 5-8 post-conference activity created by Lea Einsporn and Dana Flenner, University of Akron, Akron, Ohio.* A grades 5-8 post-conference assessment for use after completion of all activities and the videoconference is also available. Please compare your students' pre- and post-conference assessments and furnish feedback.
Advanced Notice	4 weeks
Frequency of Presentation:Recommended:	Once a month
Availability of Presenter:	Varies
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