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3,2,1 Lift Off: Launching Mission Control

We are excited to launch (pun intended) a new student workshop in partnership with the Australian Space Agency: Mission Control.

This workshop blends civics skills with science as a human endeavour.

What is it? 2x 90 minute blocks, or 3 hours in total, of fun

Who is it for? Years 6-10, Civics & Citizenship and Science curriculum links.

Where is it? At the Australian Space Discovery Centre and Parliament House

The scenario? South Australia is going to attempt to terraform Mars. A Parliamentary Committee completed an inquiry into what industries would need to be taken to Mars for this project, and the report identified 12 industries.  The problem?  The budget will only cover 10 out of 12 industries.

  • Part 1 – Parliament/Civics & Citizenship component: The Mars Space Mission Bill 2024 needs to pass both Houses of Parliament to determine which 10 industries will be going.  The Government, Opposition, Minor Parties and specific electorates/Members all have different industry priorities.  Students complete a role play passage of a bill to decide the 10 industries.
  • Part 2 – Space Agency/STEM component: Students complete a design challenge for the different industries going to Mars – what will the public transport system look like? What should the civic centre look like?

We look forward to seeing the first students try this program!