This week, Year 5 blasted off to the Victorian Space Science Education Centre (VSSEC) to further their exploration of our solar system. After an early start and a bus trip to Strathmore, Year 5 participated in a range of amazing activities.  The first step: get suited up in a space suit and travel to Mars!

After awakening from cryosleep and touching down on a Mars research base, Year 5 were tasked with conducting experiments testing the living conditions of Mars. Programming Robotic Arms, checking the pH levels of chemicals and growing hydroponics were all in a solar cycle’s work for the young Mars scientists.

Back on Earth, Mission Control was being staffed with other Year 5 scientists. This command center helped monitor the oxygen levels, waste and communication between our interstellar base. While conducting our normal operation, there were even a few emergency situations. Fortunately, mission control was able to detect a deadly, alien virus before it infected the Mars scientist and they made it home safely.

Year 5 was also given a chance to explore the other celestial bodies in our solar system. Using a range of models, students measured the size, distance and rotations of different planets. After a long day, Year 5’s knowledge of the solar system had increased by not just one small step, but by one giant leap.

Mission Commanders Signing Out

Gideon S. and Naomi P.
Junior School Teachers