Space Travel

Worksheet Description

The “Space Travel” Sustained Research worksheet is designed to guide students through an investigation of the private industry’s involvement in space exploration. It prompts students to research when private interests began targeting space exploration, which countries and corporations are involved, who the leading innovators are, and the nature of their innovations. Additionally, the worksheet asks students to explore the social, economic, and political implications of private space exploration, including its regulation. After conducting initial research, students are instructed to formulate a focused research question related to private industry space exploration and to conduct more in-depth research to answer this question.

The worksheet aims to teach students about the evolving landscape of space exploration, particularly the shift from government-led to private industry-led initiatives. It encourages critical analysis of the impact that private companies have on space exploration and the broader implications for society and policy. By directing students to examine regulatory frameworks, the worksheet also introduces them to the complexities of space law and governance. Furthermore, the task of formulating a research question and conducting deeper research is designed to enhance students’ abilities to investigate a specialized topic within a larger context, honing their research and analytical skills.