"We Choose to Go to the Moon!"

by Nicole Ayers, Math & Science

In honor of the 50th anniversary of Apollo 11 landing on the moon, we started the year with a study of human space exploration. The seventh-grade students researched characteristics of the solar system capable of sustaining life, along with adaptations necessary for humans to travel, work, and live in space. As part of the investigation, they made a simulation of NASA’s upcoming Lunar Gateway, in anticipation of humankind’s next steps on the moon. Fellow students got to imagine and experience how microgravity affects basic necessities such as eating, drinking, and sleeping. They learned about the value of growing plants in space, as well as the importance of keeping a sound mind in tight quarters. Students even got to suit up for a moonwalk and communicate with one another via headset and webcam. The Life in Space Experience was…out of this world!