Teacher Resources
Near-Space Balloons, Icy Moon Clues, and Orchard-Scanning Drones
Pre-Watch Hook
"What tool have you used that helped you see or learn something you could not notice with just your eyes? "
Ask the class before hitting play to activate prior knowledge.
Main Takeaway
"Scientists and farmers use tools like balloons, spacecraft, cameras, and drones to observe places and details that are hard to study up close."
near space
Definition: A very high part of Earth’s atmosphere above where most airplanes fly, but not the same as being in orbit.
"The NASA balloon rose into near space to test student-built experiments."
plume
Definition: A spray or stream of material that shoots out from a surface.
"Enceladus has icy plumes that may come from a hidden ocean."
nitrogen
Definition: A nutrient that plants need to grow and stay healthy.
"Farmers can use drone maps to learn about nitrogen levels in apple trees."
drone
Definition: A small flying machine that can be controlled remotely or fly with programmed instructions.
"A drone can gather information while flying above an orchard."
