Engineering Design/Forces and Motion: Balloon Aerodynamics Challenge

During this web seminar, you will be introduced to the Forces and Motion: Balloon Aerodynamics Challenge for students. This activity provides first-hand information about density, neutral buoyancy and drag, which is then used to solve a problem. You will learn about basic aerodynamics forces, watch videos showing how NASA keeps the International Space Station in the correct orbit, how astronauts train in the Neutral Buoyancy Lab and how NASA applies aerodynamic principles to atmospheric ballooning. You will get a list of materials needed for your students to do the challenge and an understanding of the methods you can use to execute this activity in your classroom. You will also collaborate with other participants on possible modifications for your grade level. The activity provides many opportunities for incorporating national mathematics, science, and technology learning standards into your curriculum.