Mars Perseverance Activity: Areology

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In this activity, learners take core samples of candy bars with a straw and carefully observe & excavate their sample, modeled after what the NASA Perseverance rover will do on Mars. Learners will compare their "tasty" unknown core samples to the known samples of candy bars provided in the guide. This activity includes step-by-step instructions, a video demonstration with background information, and content ties to NASA's Perseverance rover mission.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
Under 5 minutes
Learning Time:
30 to 45 minutes
Estimated Materials Cost:
$1 - $5 per student
Age Range:
Ages 6 - 14
Resource Type:
Activity
Language:
English

Materials List (per student)

  • “Fun or bite size” candy bar (Snickers, Milky Way, Mounds, Reeses Peanut Butter Cup, etc)
  • Two 3” long section of clear plastic soda straw
  • Paper plate
  • Plastic knife
  • Graph paper or small ruler
  • Wet wipes (optional for hand clean-up prior to activity since edible material is involved.)
  • Sample core photos and answer key

Keywords

Subjects

  • Earth and Space Science
    • Astronomy
      • Probes, Satellites and Spacecraft
    • Earth Structure
      • Rocks and Minerals
    • Solar System
      • The Planets

Other

Components that are part of this resource:

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

Rights:

  • , Saint Louis Science Center, 2021

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