Mission to Mars Amid a Pandemic: A Design Case About Pivoting and Reaching

• In Event: Design With Technology

Abstract

For years, the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) in New Mexico has led an outreach effort called Mission to Mars to engage fifth grade students to apply science and mathematics concepts related to building a colony on Mars. Many organizations across the US canceled similar events due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This design case details the pivot one organization made to continue the program. We share successes—including reaching more rural learners—insights, and challenges, and how these have shaped a more inclusive vision for future programs.

Authors

• Camille R Velarde, University of New Mexico

• Ronda Cole, Air Force Research Laboratory

• Esti Gutierrez, DoD STARBASE New Mexico

• Maryann Hospelhorn, AFRL NM STEM Academy

• Vanessa Svihla, University of New Mexico

• Matt Fetrow, Air Force Research Laboratory