Mega Space Mission: Amazing Space Voyage-Astronomy & Space (Ages 14-18)

Astronomy has always been an important part of human history, from the Ancient Greeks and Mayan astronomers, to Nicolaus Copernicus, Johannes Kepler, Galileo, Isaac Newton, and even to Albert Einstein. Astronomy has played a mysterious, yet vital role in our world. After all, as humans, we have an innate desire to be explorers and space is, perhaps, one of the most thrilling areas of unimaginable and untapped exploration and discovery. As many nations have been delving deeper and deeper into their space programs, pushing the limits of human interaction with our solar surroundings and the cosmos, it is vital to instill a love of learning about space into the minds of the next generation. This class will focus on the various objects both inside and outside of our solar system, while also giving students an in-depth look into how to become an astronaut, the training, the benefits, and the disadvantages. This course gives the student an opportunity to put all their learning into an exciting compilation when they will Journey to become an Astronaut and choose an area of space to explore for their project! 

In this 12-week course, students will take a learning adventure throughout our Solar System & will be able to:
1.	Discuss the Sun and other Stars: how they form, their lifecycles, and how they die.
2. 	Compare & Contrast the planets and dwarf planets in our Solar System.
3.	Discuss the different types of Space Rocks.
4.	Explain the Order of our Solar System, including the unique objects found within it.
5.	Identify various Subjects of Study and Training required to become an Astronaut.
6.	Compare and Contrast the various Types of Spacecraft sent into space by humans.
7.	Discuss Humans living and working in Space and the challenges associated with Space travel.
7.	Apply knowledge by Creating and Presenting a Space Adventure Project.

Class Experience: 
The student will be introduced to planets, moons, the Sun, and other objects found in our solar system; they will learn how a person becomes an astronaut and the desirable training and areas of study to pursue this career, the various types of spacecraft humans have sent into space, various space missions, as well as an in-depth study of objects found outside of our solar system. Students will be given a variety of opportunities to discuss areas of space exploration they want to share with the class, and there will be a Space Adventure Project presented by students during the last class.
Teacher will use a combination of teaching strategies and methodologies, using Game-based and Visual Learning, Inquiry-based Learning, slide presentations, videos, and discussions. Teacher will present the information in a fun, informative manner & then students and teacher will discuss each topic, while drawing conclusions, making comparisons, identifying the key information, and learning all about our own solar system, outside of our solar system, spacecraft, astronauts, and more.
*No prior knowledge is necessary.