Scouting
the
Solar
System
Eric
Johnston
Science
Perspective:
Earth and Space Science
Benchmark:
The differences between the Earth and the other inner planets of the Solar
System.
Generalization:
The Earth, while similar to the other inner planets, has many differences
that allow life to prosper.
Key
Concept: Planet Characteristics
Introduction
By
the year 2050, scientists expect the Earth's population to be too large
to be supported by the planet. NASA has given your group the job of scouting
out a proper location for an "off Earth" settlement. You are about to embark
on a journey to the inner planets of the Solar System. On your way, you
will stop by Mercury, Venus, and Mars to make observations about their
potential as sites for human development. Your group will present a report
about which planet would be the most likely place for humans to move in
the future.
Task
Working
in groups of 2-3, you will visit web sites to read and learn about the
inner planets of the Solar System.
Process
In
a table or chart (click
here to print), you will be able to:
1. List characteristics and details about Mercury, Venus and Mars.
2. Describe the characteristics of Earth's atmosphere, temperature and weather that allow humans to survive.
3.
Compare/contrast each of the planets to Earth.
Resources
Planetary information links
http://pds.jpl.nasa.gov/planets
http://seds.lpl.arizona.edu/nineplanets/nineplanets.html
http://www.cbc4kids.cbc.ca/general/the-lab/space/explore.html
TREASURE HUNT
Which Planet would you consider most likely for a human settlement in the future?
These
questions should lead you to an answer....
(Answer in complete sentences on a separate sheet
of paper)
1. What things are necessary for life to exist on Earth?
2. Compare the atmospheres of Mercury, Venus, and Mars to Earth. Which would be the most suitable choice based on atmosphere?
3. What is the length of a day and year on each planets? How might this affect our choice?
4. Compare the temperature of each planet with that of the Earth. Which would be the most suitable choice based on temperature?
5. Compare the resources of each planet with those of the Earth. Which would be the most suiitable based on resources?
6. What
special adaptations would humans need to live on any of these planets?
Evaluation
Click
here
to
evaluate your work.
Conclusion
The
shuttle has now landed back in the good ol' USA. After your explorations
through the Solar System, you should now have a better understanding of
what it will take to survive in space. Your report will be of great interest
to the leaders of this country and you will be remembered by many generations
of transplanted Earthlings!!!