In this activity, students learn how light and energy are spread throughout space. The rate of change can be expressed mathematically, demonstrating why spacecraft like NASA’s Juno need so many solar panels.

In this illustrated problem set, students use pi to compare the sizes of Mars landing areas, calculate the length of a year for a distant solar system object, measure the depth of the ocean from an airplane, and determine the diameter of a debris disk.

In this intermediate-level programming challenge, students use microdevices along with light and mirrors to build a relay that can send information to a distant detector.

In this standards-aligned unit, students learn about Mars, design a mission to explore the planet, build and test model spacecraft and components, and engage in scientific exploration.

This board-game activity teaches students the process of design, engineering and technology for a mission to Mars.

Students will design, build and test a crew exploration vehicle, or CEV, to carry astronauts to Mars – meeting size, mass and payload requirements.

Students will use the engineering design process to design, build, test and improve a model satellite intended to investigate the surface of a planet.

Students design and build a shock-absorbing system that will protect two "astronauts" when they land.

These 60-second videos answer some of the most frequently asked questions about our planetary neighbor, Mars, and the spacecraft that explore it.