Cirrus-ly Spectacular Waves
The ICE CUBES mission introduces students to microelectronics, electromagnetic radiation, and wave properties through a series of hands-on lessons and experiments. Students define an engineering problem and identifying criteria and constraints for a satellite mission studying cirrus clouds and climate factors. They explore different types of electromagnetic radiation and their practical uses, conduct experiments to understand light interactions, and learn about wave properties and digital communication methods. Students design model satellites that balance important trade-offs, build simple circuits to understand microchip functions, and learn about radiation hardening in satellite microelectronics. Throughout the unit, students develop problem-solving skills, data collection and analysis, and how to apply scientific concepts to real-world engineering challenges.
Core Content: Wave properties, energy, light and electromagnetic spectrum, circuits
Grade Levels: Middle School Science
ME Connection: build circuits with breadboards; add redundancy to circuits for radiation hardening in space environment; microcontrollers and sensors