In Mrs. Casey Volpe’s Space Exploration and Technology elective at Montverde Academy, Middle School students recently explored the history and ingenuity of the Apollo Space Program through a creative, hands-on engineering challenge.
After learning about the complexities of space exploration, students were tasked with designing their own lunar landers capable of safely delivering two marshmallow “astronauts” to a designated landing site on a moon map. Following the engineering design process, they created shock-absorbing systems using simple materials such as paper, straws, and mini marshmallows. These systems were then attached to cardboard platforms, tested, and refined based on results.
The activity emphasized the importance of persistence and problem-solving in engineering. Students experienced firsthand how initial failures can lead to innovation and eventual success, mirroring the journey of the United States during the Apollo missions.
By combining history, science, and creativity, the lesson provided an engaging way for students to practice critical thinking while gaining a deeper appreciation for the challenges and triumphs of space exploration.
