Header Bar Graphic
Space Image and IconSpace HeaderKids Image
Spacer Space IconHomepage ButtonWhat is NASA Quest ButtonSpacerCalendar of Events ButtonWhat is an Event ButtonHow do I Participate ButtonSpacerBios and Journals ButtonSpacerPics, Flicks and Facts ButtonArchived Events ButtonQ and A ButtonNews ButtonSpacerEducators and Parents ButtonSpacer
Highlight Graphic
Sitemap ButtonSearch ButtonContact Button 		 

PSA Microgravity Challenge
Preliminary Designs


Caroline Robins Community School, Canada
Mrs. Liebrecht’s Grade 4/5 class

By: Rochelle, Chelsea, Nicole and Jenna

Expert response

Our PSA: We built our PSA out of two pieces of cardboard, a tennis ball, two pieces of string and one remote controlled mini skateboard.

How our PSA works: We cut out and taped two pieces of cardboard and stuck them on to opposite ends of the remote controlled skateboard. Then we stuck two strings into the tennis ball and tied the two ends through the pieces of the cardboard. With the remaining piece of string, we held the end of the string and let it go. This caused the tennis ball to lift up 3 inches. We can easily move the PSA forward and back by the use of the remote controlled skateboard.

drawing of student design


Response from Expert Dan Andrews - (See Final Design for Student Responses):

This is a very nice diagram, and I think I sort-of understand how it works. If I push on the PSA (ball) the skateboard will begin moving.

What if I push the PSA sideways, though? I don't think the skateboard could move in that direction, so the PSA couldn't move.

What if I pulled-up on the PSA (Ball)? Would it keep moving up, or would it fall back down as soon as I let go of it?

More Designs 		 
Spacer        

Footer Bar Graphic
SpacerSpace IconAerospace IconAstrobiology IconWomen of NASA IconSpacer
Footer Info