Operating a vehicle remotely can be difficult, especially when the vehicle is on another planet. Young engineers get a feel for some of the real-world challenges as they work to program their rovers (blindfolded group members) through an obstacle course. 

Concepts

mars rover

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Additional Tags

mars rover, curiosity rover, programming robots, science

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Instructional Ideas

• If you have access to robotics materials, some kids could work to get a robot through the obstacle course

Pros

• Demonstrates some of the issues that arise with NASA teams
• Increases communication between classmates

Cons

• Requires significant teacher prep and coordination