Flying Farther and Faster

A Computer Activity Based on NASA Glenn Research Center's High Speed Civil Transport (HSCT)


Subject Area: Computer Applications

Grade Level: 9 - 12

National Technology Standards:

Objectives:


Early in the next century, American-made supersonic airliners could be carrying millions of passengers per year to points across the globe at more than twice the speed of sound. To turn that dream into a reality, NASA is working on the technology needed to make a new high-speed civil transport.

 

NASA's Proposed High-Speed Civil Transport

 

Currently supersonic transportation is available to and from Europe by the Concorde. This high-speed airliner is expensive and few travelers use it. Business analysts believe that business and travel needs in the future will require high-speed transportation to the growing economic markets in Asia. Unfortunately, travel to Asia currently requires many exhausting hours of travel. However, a high-speed trip from Los Angeles to Tokyo, for example, would take just over 4 hours. NASA and its business partners are planning to provide this transportation at a cost that is 10% - 20% higher than the cost of traditional commercial air flight.

Use your computer skills to complete the Activity on Flying Farther and Faster. In it you will study a trip to Asia on a high speed transport and calculate and compare ticket costs for a flight from Los Angeles to Tokyo.

 


Assessment: You will be evaluated on the feasibility of your answers.

Evaluation:

You will be able to use the World Wide Web to access additional information needed to complete the activity. You will be able to present your information in a graphic form, using a spreadsheet and graphics editing tools.

Submitted by: Paula M. Brinkmann, Lutheran High School West, Rocky River, Ohio



Please send any comments to:
Curator:
Tom.Benson@grc.nasa.gov
Responsible Official: Kathy.Zona@grc.nasa.gov