Introduction This lesson is about exploring interplanetary communications. We are going to look at how communication works between the planets and other parts of the solar system, how communication hurdles have been overcome, and how we can use this knowledge to develop better interplanetary communications in the future.

Lesson Outline 1. Explore different forms of long-distance communication (e.g. radio waves, light waves). 2. Examine current models of interplanetary communication. 3. Discuss why interplanetary communication is difficult. 4. Examine the principles of communication in space. 5. Consider the technological and ethical implications of interplanetary communication.

Questioning Throughout the lesson, the teacher should pose questions that invite the students to consider the material and draw their own conclusions. Questions should focus on problem-solving, evaluation, creative thinking, and collaboration. Here are some examples:

• What advantages and disadvantages do different forms of long-distance communication have? • How does the distance between two points affect how communication works? • What technologies are used for interplanetary communication? • Why might ethical considerations affect the development of interplanetary communication?

Assessment Students will demonstrate their understanding through a written assignment. They will create a concept or design for a new form of interplanetary communication, and then explain the advantages and disadvantages of their form of communication.

Differentiation The written assignment can be adapted for different learning levels. For lower level students, the assignment can focus more on the explanation of existing methods of interplanetary communication, and for higher level students, the assignment can focus more on exploring creative solutions to communication challenges.

Plenary To wrap up the lesson, have the students share their ideas with the class. This will allow them to practice their public speaking skills, as well as to gain insight into different ideas on the topic.

Resources • Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AiKnikxV_HU • Worksheets: http://www.ksc.nasa.gov/education/worksheets/interplanetarycomm.pdf • Fact Sheet: https://space.nasa.gov/background/interplanetary-communications-fact-sheet.html