In the Space Science area, the students participate in three
physical activities that demonstrate physics concepts that
are important to successful space travel.
Orbital Chair - shows the importance of orbital mechanics.
If you were sending a space probe to Jupiter - where would you aim it?
As the orbital chair rotates, the students who are sitting on it must
throw a ball back and forth.
Momentum Machine - shows the Conservation of Angular Momentum.
Why do ice skaters spin faster when they bring their arms close to their
body? As they turn, the students lean in and out to change their speed.
Gyro
Chair -demonstrates how gyroscopes work.
How are gyroscopes used to orient satellites and space probes? Students
use a spinning gyroscope to rotate themselves in the Gyro chair.
Exploring
Physics Vocabulary
List - While at the Ames Exploration
Encounter students will hear many new words. It is recommended
that the students become familiar with the vocabulary before
attending.
