Examples of tasks
Each student is presented with a map of the same area of the comet, but with different geographical and/or geological properties displayed. For instance, one student sees an infrared map, showing seismic activity, and another student is presented with a map showing where the surface is icy or rocky. Each student has then to figure out where on his or her particular map it would be advisable to land. The students now have to work, first individually and then together, in order to find a suitable landing spot where all the criteria from the combined set of maps are met.
Another task is to try out orbits. Up to ten spacecraft can be launched with different orbital parameters and in this way compared. This gives students a feeling for Newton's law of gravity. The gravity of the comet can be changed during simulation to see its effects on orbits.
To try it yourself please click on the image at the left. The application (740 KB) will start with a help page explaining the interface. Note that some of the buttons at the right side of the interface are not working in this demo.
This is an example of a narration by the virtual character dr_ashley explaining our solar system. Please click on the image at the left to watch it (5.9 MB).