Mission to Space: Discover the Math and Physics of Exploration

Who Is This Class For?

Ages: 11–14 years old.

Ideal for: Curious learners, STEM enthusiasts, and aspiring engineers or astronauts.

Inclusive Environment: Designed for gifted and neurodiverse students.

Open to All Skill Levels: No prior knowledge of physics or math required.


  Blast off into the exciting world of space travel! In this interactive class, students will uncover the fascinating math and physics concepts that power humanity’s journey beyond Earth. From calculating rocket trajectories to understanding the forces of gravity and propulsion, this class combines hands-on problem-solving with real-world applications to inspire the next generation of explorers.

Perfect for curious learners and space enthusiasts, this course makes science and math exciting, accessible, and fun!


Week 
Topic 1

 Introduction to Rocket Science: Why Space Travel?
•	Overview of space travel and its historical significance.
•	Introduction to the fundamental concepts: gravity, force, acceleration, and velocity.
•	Key math and physics terms students need to know: vectors, momentum, and energy.


Topic 2

 Newton’s Laws: The Building Blocks of Rocket Science
•	Understanding Newton’s Three Laws of Motion and how they apply to rockets.
•	How rockets overcome gravity: thrust, lift, and propulsion.
•	The relationship between mass, acceleration, and force (F = ma).


Topic 3

 Escape Velocity: Breaking Free from Earth’s Gravity
•	What is escape velocity? Why it’s crucial for space missions.
•	The math behind escape velocity and how it differs for different planets and moons.
•	The role of energy in overcoming Earth’s gravitational pull.

 
Topic 4

 Rocket Propulsion: How Rockets Get to Space
•	The physics of rocket propulsion: thrust, exhaust velocity, and the rocket equation.
•	Understanding fuel efficiency and how rockets are powered.
•	The concept of impulse and momentum in rocket launches.


  
Topic 5

Orbits and Trajectories: Getting to the Right Place in Space
•	How rockets achieve orbit and the physics of orbital mechanics.
•	Different types of orbits: Low Earth Orbit (LEO), Geostationary Orbit (GEO), and more.
•	The importance of trajectory planning for interplanetary travel.

 
Topic 6

The Future of Space Travel: Challenges and Innovations
•	The latest advancements in rocket science and space exploration (e.g., reusable rockets, Mars missions, private space travel).
•	Current challenges in space travel: fuel, cost, and radiation.
•	The role of new technologies in shaping the future of space exploration.