In a military context a missile is a rocket-propelled, guided weapon.

Exhibitions

Learning Resources

Activity/Lab Interactive

Three Types of Engines

Learn how piston engines, jet engines, and rocket engines all depend on the same basic principles to produce thrust.

More Three Types of Engines
Less Three Types of Engines
Grade Level
Grade 3, Grade 4, Grade 5, Grade 6, Grade 7 and Grade 8
Topics
Aircraft, Missiles, Rockets and Technology and Engineering
Leader
Student, Teacher and Parent/Caregiver
Rights
cc-by-nc
Activity/Lab Interactive

Thrust: Rocket Engines

Explore how rocket engines generate thrust.

More Thrust: Rocket Engines
Less Thrust: Rocket Engines
Grade Level
Grade 3, Grade 4, Grade 5, Grade 6, Grade 7 and Grade 8
Topics
Rockets, Missiles and Science
Leader
Student, Teacher and Parent/Caregiver
Rights
cc-by-nc
Lesson Plan Document

Smithsonian Science Starter: How to Launch a Rocket

This lesson will investigate how rocketry works, and the role of Newton’s Second and Third Laws of Motion in explaining rocket motion.

More Smithsonian Science Starter: How to Launch a Rocket
Less Smithsonian Science Starter: How to Launch a Rocket
Grade Level
Grade 5, Grade 6, Grade 7 and Grade 8
Topics
Missiles, Rockets, Science, Spacecraft and Technology and Engineering
Leader
Teacher
Rights
cc-by-nc
Lesson Video

Smithsonian Science Starter: Learn About Rocket Launches Using Balloons – ISS Science

What do balloons have to do with rockets? Find out in this episode of ISS Science with Astronaut Randy Bresnik.

More Smithsonian Science Starter: Learn About Rocket Launches Using Balloons – ISS Science
Less Smithsonian Science Starter: Learn About Rocket Launches Using Balloons – ISS Science
Grade Level
Grade 5, Grade 6, Grade 7 and Grade 8
Topics
Human spaceflight, Missiles, Rockets, Technology and Engineering and Spaceflight
Leader
Student and Teacher
Rights
cc-by-nc