Topic outline

• It is Rocket Science
  

  It is Rocket Science

  Time: 8 weeks   Level: 7-10   Key Learning Areas: ICT, Maths, Science   Skills required: Low level IT skills

  

  The race to get into space has always been one of danger and excitement as engineers and scientists design and build immensely powerful machines which are then piloted by some of the country's most experienced pilots. Have you got what it takes to design, construct and fly a multi-stage rocket into orbit and beyond?

  • Discussion forum
  • Kerbal Space program

    The Kerbal Space Program is a space flight simulator that is both fun and addictive. The demo version will run on a Windows computer but not on an iPad. Demo versions for Mac OS and Linux can be found here. Please do not use a pirated version of the software, if you like the demo version please buy the full version.

    KSP Wiki: Access here

  • Demo (Windows version) available here URL
• Kerbal Rocket Design
  

  Kerbal Rocket Design

  What do you need to take your astronaut into orbit? Designing a safe and efficient launch vehicle will take skill and the ability to think outside of the box. If you think it is simply a matter of sticking your astronaut on top of as many fuel tanks and engines as you can get then think again. You will need to consider:

  • center of gravity so that your rocket is stable
  • decoupling rings so that spent fuel tanks can be jettisoned
  • strengthening struts
  • guidance system and fins to provide stability in flight
  • and more
• Kerbal Construction
  

  Kerbal Construction

  So you know what sort of rocket to build, now you have to go ahead and build it. Which engine should you use? The experimental one that still needs more testing or the less powerful engine that is less likely to explode on take-off? Let's hope for everyone's sake you get it right and your crew survive to tell the tale.
• Kerbal Astronaut Training
  

  Kerbal Astronaut Training

  Designing the space craft is one thing, flying it successfully into orbit is another. An understanding of the physics involved in getting your spacecraft in orbit is a must if you hope to eventually reach the mun and return safely. Can you:

  • keep the engines at just the right amount of thrust to save fuel and avoid overheating?
  • maintain the right attitude and make appropriate adjustments in flight to achieve a stable orbit?
  • can you monitor a dozen different variables at the same time to keep your crew safe?
• Mission Report
  

  Mission Report

  How will you report on the development of your space program from your first failures to your final, glorious success? Here are some ideas but feel free to try something different.

  • Keep a blog of your work including screenshots of your spacecraft and missions. Record each time your goals and your progress towards those goals.
  • Write newspaper articles for each stage of your space program - make them exciting, you have to sell those newspapers!
  • Draw a timeline showing your major successes and failures.
  • Demonstrate a successful flight to your mentor either live or using a pre-recorded video.