Lunar Design Challenge

History• When were lunar rovers first used?

• What could they do?• Why is this important?

The Engineering Design Process

• Step 1: Present the Problem • Step 2: Imagine the Possibilities: Brainstorm!

• Step 3: Make a Plan and Predict

• Step 4: Design and Build• Step 5: Reflect and Revise

The Problem

The Lunar Design Company needs a vehicle that will safely carry 2 astronauts and a cargo container down a ramp. Your challenge is to design and build it. Your team will compete with other teams: Which vehicle can travel the longest distance and be the most cost effective?

The Criteria

• You must keep track of what you spend.• The vehicle can be no more than 20 centimeters wide and 25 centimeters long.

• It must be lightweight.• You may test and revise your design as needed. You must work together as a team, sharing ideas and helping each other.

Required Components:•Chassis•Wheels•Cargo•Astronauts

Optional:•Seats•Steering wheel•Camera•Other

The Engineering Team

• Project Manager: Keeps the team on schedule and on budget

• Materials Manager: Brings and distributes supplies and lists materials used

• Cost Analyst: Records and totals the amount spent

• Data Analyst: Records the data for each trial

• Communications Specialist: Spokesperson for the team; presents a one minute summary at the showcase

Imagine the Possibilities!

• Take a look at the materials available to you and brainstorm ideas with your team

• Make a plan• Predict what will happen

Physical Science: Forces And Motion

Standard 5.P.5: The student will demonstrate an understanding of the factors that affect the motion of an object. 5.P.5A. Conceptual Understanding: The motion of an object can be described in terms of its position, direction, and speed. The rate and motion of an object is determined by multiple factors. Performance Indicators: Students who demonstrate this understanding can:5.P.5A.1 Use mathematical and computational thinking to describe and predict the motion of an object (including position, direction, and speed).5.P.5A.3 Plan and conduct controlled scientific investigations to test the effects of balanced and unbalanced forces on the rate and direction of motion of objects.5.P.5A.4 Analyze and interpret data to describe how a change of force, a change in mass, or friction affects the motion of an object.

Thank you for visiting the Ruth Patrick Science Education

Center!