Space Exploration Learning Targets

Section 1 Learning Targets

  • Can I describe the way that human understanding of Earth and space has depended on technological development?
  • Can I identify various ideas about the nature of Earth and space, based on culture and science?
  • Can I describe the position of objects in space using angular coordinates?
  • Can I describe how the motion of objects in space is determined?
  • Can I interpret drawings that illustrate the motion of objects in space?
  • Can I describe, in general terms, the distribution of matter in star systems, galaxies, nebulae, and the universe?
  • Can I identify and describe characteristics of the planets and compare these to Earth?
  • Can I describe the various forms of matter in space?

    Section 2 Learning Targets

    • Can I explain, in general terms, the operation of optical telescopes?
    • Can I identify problems in developing technologies for space exploration and explain the scientific principles involved?
    • Can I describe the contributions of technological advances to a scientific understanding of space?
    • Can I identify problems in developing technologies developed for life in space and explain the scientific principles involved?
    • Can I summarize the contributions of radio telescopes and space probes in gaining knowledge about space?
    • Can I summarize the contributions of optical telescopes and spectroscopes?
    • Can I describe and apply triangulation for determining the distance between Earth and objects in space?
    • Can I describe and interpret the science of optical and radio telescopes, space probes, and remote sensing technologies?


    Section 3 Learning Targets

      • Can I describe technologies for space transport and interpret the scientific principles involved?
      • Can I analyze space environments and identify challenges that must be met in developing life support systems?
      • Can I describe technologies for space transport and interpret the scientific principles involved?

      Section 4 Learning Targets

      • Can I describe technologies for space transport and interpret the scientific principles involved?
      • Can I identify and analyze factors important to decisions regarding space exploration?