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Robots on Mars

This lesson will introduce students to one of many challenges Earth engineers face when building a permanent base on Mars. Students will design a tool or piece of equipment that will mount on the “Mars Innovation” rover which aids in the extraction of resources from the planet’s regolith.

Subjects: MathematicsDesign and Technology
Years | Grades: 10th Grade | 14-15 years11th Grade | 15-16 years12th Grade | 16-18 years13th Grade | 18-19 years
Duration: Lesson 1: 50 minutes Print time: ~ 3 hours 40 minutes Lesson 2: 50 minutes

Objectives

Understand the challenges faced when colonizing other worlds
Design a 3D model of a tool or piece of equipment that mounts on the “Mars Innovation” rover
Manufacture a mount for the “Mars Innovation” rover suitable for 3D printing

Tools and equipment

Each student workgroup needs:

Laptop/computer with mouse and internet access
Set of example bolt .STL files
Pen or pencil
Robots on Mars worksheet

Teacher needs:

3D printer and PLA filament
Laptop/computer with mouse, internet access and DeeControl software for the YSoft be3D eDee 3D printer
Set of example bolt and block .STL files