The Knowledge Ninja is looking for sixth- through eighth-graders to complete this challenge and become Knowledge Ninjas. Use your ninja skills to investigate, then answer the questions below by November 10 to be entered in a raffle to win a prize to help you continue your ninja training. Watch for more challenges coming soon!
Human exploration of space is in our plans. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is planning to send humans to Mars by 2030. Can humans make the trip — and return home safely?
Books
Space Exploration: Uncover the science behind space travel including rockets, exploratory vehicles and space stations, along with great illustrations.
Want to learn more? Check out our complete list of recommended titles.
Articles
- Asteroids: A Stepping Stone to Mars?: One plan for getting to Mars includes capturing an asteroid and bringing it close to Earth’s moon. Is this just a wacky idea, or good science?
- In a Dome in Hawaii, a Mission to Mars: Experience the conditions of Mars on Earth.
- Mars: World Book Encyclopedia article on the red planet, written by astronomer Steven Squyres, inventor of the Mars rovers.
- Orion Mission: Capsule's 264-Minute Triumph Brings Prospect of Manned Mars Mission Closer: The Guardian offers an international perspective on the success of the Orion launch and the challenges to NASA’s plan for future programs.
- Space Exploration: Science Online explains what humans have already accomplished in space.
Websites
- HI-SEAS: Experience living on Mars right here on Earth.
- Making Mars the New Earth: How can we sustain life on Mars?
- Mars Exploration: Become a Martian citizen by exploring through pictures, facts and activities around Mars' ability to support life.
- The Real Martian: Investigate the science behind the movie.
- Voyages: Charting the Course for Sustainable Human Space Exploration: NASA report on how and why we explore space, with chapters on Mars as a destination.
Explore Further
- At home or school search these keywords for even more information: Mars exploration, space colonies and manned space flight.
- At the library, check this call number for more books: QB641 and TL793
Think About It
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