NASA - National Aeronautics and Space Administration

Program Description

It is possible to capture the pioneering legacy of the Apollo Space Program and solar system exploration by bringing the physical geology of lunar and meteorite studies into the classroom. Samples of lunar rocks (brought to Earth by Apollo astronauts) and meteorites are available on loan to certified educators for classroom use.

The lunar and meteorite samples are embedded in rugged acrylic disks 15cm in diameter, and are suitable for student use. The NASA Dryden Educator Resource Center is responsible for the lunar and meteorite disks. The disks are made available for one-, or two-week periods. The disks are accompanied by a multimedia package for curriculum integration. The package includes Exploring the Moon and Exploring Meteorite Mysteries educator guides, an annotated slide set of lunar images, a collection of color photographs, and descriptions of the six disk samples.

Program Objectives

The goal of this program is to make a portion of lunar and meteorite "extraterrestrial" material available for teaching and learning. The objectives are:

• Certifying educators regarding security requirements.
• Motivating students to learn about lunar and meteorite science.

Eligibility Requirements

To use the lunar and meteorite samples, educators must attend a training seminar on the security requirements and proper handling procedures. Educators will be awarded a certificate, a copy of which will be kept on file at the NASA Dryden Educator Resource Center.

How to Schedule and Request Meteorite and Lunar Samples

Educators who have been certified for the Lunar/Meteorite Sample Loan Program may submit a written request for a loan of the samples. Requests must be sent to the NASA Dryden Educator Resource Center. Requests are met on a first come first serve basis, at least one month prior to the requested loan date.

Inquiries

Michelle Davis
NASA Dryden Educator Resource Center
NASA Dryden Flight Research Center
P.O. Box 273, Mail Stop 4839
Edwards, CA 93523-0273
(661) 276-2445
Fax (661) 265-9548