Simulated Space Missions: Overview
A Challenger Learning Center mission is more than a field trip or a computer game, it's an off-site laboratory. Our mission simulations are learning environments embedded with activities and lessons aligned with national Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) and Common Core State Standards (CCSS). While students become astronauts and engineers at Challenger Learning Centers they are solving real-world problems as they share the thrill of discovery on missions through the Solar System. Students will engage in the enterprise of science while applying skills in STEM. The jobs they perform will complement their in-class work and provide experiences that are not possible in the classroom. They will be required to solve problems,communicate effectively, make good decisions and work as a team to achieve success. |
When students arrive at the Challenger Learning Center, a short briefing is held in which they will review their mission objectives. The group is then divided in two with one half taking their work stations in Mission Control and the other half "launching" to the Space Lab to work as astronauts. Each member is assigned to one of the teams that comprise the crew, such as: Medical, Life Support, Robotic, HazMat, Aeronautical Engineering, Navigation, and Communication. Halfway through the mission, the students exchange places so everyone has an opportunity to experience both Mission Control and the Space Lab |
Standards and Skills addressed by Challenger Missions: click here "Excellent experience. Very lucky to be part of this program. Instruction and facilitation were awesome!" Kevin Malenfant, teacher - Presque Isle Middle School "Fantastic! I do not have any suggestions because the experience is perfect for 6th graders." Mike Healy, teacher - Saint Brigid School, Portland "We loved this experience! Every student was utilized and engaged! The content of the program was educational and fascinating!" Suzanne Caron, teacher - Maranacook Middle School, Readfield |
Types of Missions
Rendezvous with a Comet Mission
Grades 5-10
Crew Size: 16-32 Duration: 2.5 hours A team of scientists and engineers are on a daring mission that requires them to work together while facing obstacles and emergencies on their pathway to success. With a focus on the enterprise of science, teams will collect and analyze data to ensure the safety of the crew, simultaneously conducting important research for the benefit of humankind. |
Return to the Moon Mission
Grades 6-10
Crew Size: 16-32 Duration: 2.5 hours For the first time since 1972, a crew of astronauts is returning to the Moon. Their mission is to determine the location of a future base on the Moon, as well as test the feasibility of off-Earth settlements. Navigating their way into lunar orbit, students must construct and launch a probe, and analyze a variety of data gathered from the lunar surface to select a site for establishing the permanent Moon base. |
Earth from Orbit Mission
Grades 6-10
Crew Size: 16-32 Duration: 2.5 hours A team of scientists and engineers has been called in to construct and deploy a new satellite and retrieve important data about the Earth and its environment. Students collect data, avert disasters, and learn about the intricate relationships of the facets of Earth’s system: atmosphere, hydrosphere, biosphere, and lithosphere. |
Exploration Lab Mission
Grades 1-5
Crew Size: 12-26 Duration: 2 hours An introduction to lab science and process skills. During this program students will have a chance to try out several stations in the Mission Control and Space Lab simulators. Skills may include reading coordinates, using a balance, rock identification, following directions, effective communication, and data collection. |
Ready to take FLIGHT?
Here is how to participate
The first step is to fill out our "let's get started" online form. This form will start the communication process with a member of Challenger's staff regarding your mission selection and mission date(s). Next, your training at a mission teacher workshop will be scheduled. Finally, we will send you billing information regarding payment arrangements and scholarship opportunities (if needed). Details for each of these items follows:
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Step 1: |
Initial Inquiry:
Click on and fill out the "Let's Get Started" online form below. |
Step 3:
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Cost:
Once your mission(s) date is picked, we will send you billing information regarding your payment arrangements. Below is the basic information regarding mission cost and scholarship opportunities. $650: Rendezvous with a Comet, Return to the Moon, Earth from Orbit $400: Exploration Lab **Special Pricing** Book your mission before Oct.31 and pay $625 Fly the mission between September and mid-February and save even more! Pay $600 Cancellation Policy: A full refund, less a $50 cancellation fee, will be provided for cancellations made at least 30 days prior to the mission date. clcpolicies.wikispaces.com |
Scholarship:
Don't let a lack of funding prevent your students from participating in a Challenger mission simulation! Apply for a scholarship request. Use the link below. |
Post-Mission
Once the mission is complete, we encourage you to extend the learning experience.
Click the link below to view all the post mission available. |