Learning Resources
From videos to ready-to implement classroom activities, we’re here to help you get your learners excited about air and space.
Smithsonian Science Starter: Astronauts and the ISS (Paolo Nespoli)
Investigate the history of the International Space Station (ISS), and the lives of the people who have worked on it.
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Smithsonian Science Starter: Learn About Astronaut Joe Acaba (a.k.a. “The Prince of Puerto Rico”) – ISS Science
Astronaut Randy Bresnik talks about fellow crewmate Joe Acaba
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Smithsonian Science Starter: Astronauts and the ISS (Joe Acaba)
Investigate the path to become an astronaut with NASA learning about Joe Acaba and his journey.
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Smithsonian Science Starter: Space Lingo: What Is Puffy–Head Bird–Legs? – ISS Science
Astronaut Randy Bresnik explains this condition that astronauts experience. Also check out a demonstration of Puffy–Head Bird–Legs
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Smithsonian Science Starter: Puffy Head; Bird Legs
This lesson investigates the effects of gravity on the human body and how it impacts astronauts in space.
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Smithsonian Science Starter: “Taternauts” and Spacesuits: How Astronauts Stay Safe in Space – ISS Science
Astronaut Randy Bresnik walks us through the different parts that make up a spacesuit. Also learn how to make and test your own spacesuit using a potato.
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Smithsonian Science Starter: Space Suit Taternauts
In this lesson students investigate how the layers of a spacesuit protect an astronaut in space.
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Smithsonian Science Starter: Brrrrr! How Do Extreme Temperatures Affect Spacewalks? – ISS Science
Astronaut Randy Bresnik talks about the challenges of working in the raging heat and freezing cold. Also check out an experiment you can do in your classroom.
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Smithsonian Science Starter: A Cool Lesson on Thermal Expansion
This lesson guides students through an investigation of the expansion and contraction of metal due to changes in temperature.
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Smithsonian Science Starter: Crew Profiles: Learn About Italian Astronaut Paolo Nespoli – ISS Science
Astronaut Randy Bresnik talks about fellow crewmate Paolo Nespoli.
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Smithsonian Science Starter: Mission Patches
Investigate the history of the mission patches worn by astronauts on the International Space Station (ISS), and previous NASA missions.
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Smithsonian Science Starter: Bristlebots with Private Space Explorer; Anousheh Ansari
Build robots with with electrical engineer and private space explorer; Anousheh Ansari