Taking part in this expedition has been described as being an astronaut on earth. There are the challenges of isolation, the huge suits and eating freeze-dried food. Antarctica, the coldest and driest place on planet Earth, is an ideal testing ground for equipment and technology that will be used for future missions to the Red Planet. Over the last decade engineering and materials science has been an unpopular subject – I aim to use my Engineering background to change this.
Are you looking for:
- A project to get your Science Club involved with?
- A topic for a sixth form extended project?
- Activities to improve Science students UCAS forms?
- A project for Engineering Diploma students?
- An interesting task to test students ‘How Science Works’ skills?
Students from across the country are invited to send me Antarctica/Space themed science and engineering projects. The best will be taken to the Antarctic where they will be tested in a challenging and hostile environment.
Projects could be based around the following themes:
1) Engineering/Materials Science: "Mars is extremely cold and dry. Design an experiment that will test the behaviour of materials and equipment in the closest conditions to Mars on Earth: Antarctica."
2) Physiology: "Whilst on Mars, astronauts may be subjected to challenging temperatures. Design an experiment to test how humans react to such conditions."
3) Biology: "There is a chance there may once have been life on Mars. Design an experiment to see if life can survive in the extreme cold conditions of Antarctica: the closest conditions on Earth to Mars."
4) Psychology: "Anyone going to Mars will be isolated in a small group for several years. Design an experiment to test how humans operate in a small isolated group. (The Antarctica expedition group will consist of 6 people with very little contact with the outside world)"
The projects most likely to be taken will be:
· Achievable in a 4 week timeframe
· Achievable with equipment that can easily be taken to Antarctica
· Those with interesting and original outcomes that can be disseminated post-expedition
This is a unique opportunity for students to get involved with Scientists and Explorers. Winning students will have the title of ‘Fuchs Foundation Antarctica Champions’. Winning schools have the option of being visited by me or a member of the Expedition pre or post-trip to discuss issues and science associated in Antarctica, inspiring not only winning students but pupils across your school.
Contact me for more details: tmiall@twyford.ealing.sch.uk
In association with the Space Academy:
