Get ready to embark on an exciting journey where creativity meets innovation! In this project, students will dive deep into the world of lunar mining and sustainability, exploring how humans might one day harvest resources from the Moon. But there’s a catch—just like on Earth, we need to ensure that our activities in space are responsible and sustainable.
In this activity, you’ll take on the role of both scientist and artist, combining research and imagination to create a stunning diorama of a futuristic lunar mining operation. Every step of the way, you’ll be thinking critically about the environmental challenges and how we can develop solutions that align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
From researching the Moon’s resources to crafting a visually compelling diorama, and finally presenting your vision for a sustainable lunar mining operation, this project will encourage you to think about the future of space exploration in new and exciting ways. Follow the steps below to bring your lunar mining vision to life!
Project Steps
Step 1
Introduction to Lunar Mining & Sustainability
Introduce students to the concept of lunar mining and the importance of sustainability in resource extraction. Encourage students to consider the environmental impact of mining operations on the Moon and long-term sustainability. You can download the related PowerPoint slidedeck and speaking notes for facilitators on the Resources page.
Step 2
Research
Assign students to research different aspects of lunar mining, including the types of resources that could be mined, potential extraction methods, and environmental considerations. Encourage students to think about how these mining operations could support sustainable development goals such as clean energy, economic growth, and environmental protection.
Step 3
Diorama Design
Provide students with shoeboxes or small containers to serve as the base for their dioramas (bonus for using recycled materials). Use craft supplies and modeling materials to create a realistic lunar landscape, including craters, rocks, and lunar soil. Students can also design and construct miniature mining equipment, vehicles, and facilities to depict a sustainable mining operation on the Moon.
Step 4
Presentation & Reflection
Students will present their dioramas and share their ideas and sustainable practices for lunar mining. This could include incorporating renewable energy sources such as solar panels, implementing waste recycling systems, and/or designing habitats that minimize impact on the lunar environment. Students can use labels or captions to explain the sustainable features of their dioramas.
Students will present their dioramas to the class, explaining the elements they included and how they promote sustainability in lunar mining. Encourage peer feedback and discussion about the different approaches to sustainable resource extraction depicted in the dioramas. Finally, facilitate a reflection session where students consider the challenges and opportunities of sustainable lunar mining and discuss potential solutions for addressing environmental concerns.
Make sure to check out all the resources!
Project Steps
SDGs
Resources
Links
