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    Home » Can you fix the astronauts glove?

    Can you fix the astronauts glove?

    January 23, 2017 By Emma Vanstone 1 Comment

    This is a great space science challenge to use as an introduction to a space theme and/or for exploring properties of materials.

    Space science challenge - cool science for kids

    You’re on the Space Station and need to do a space walk, but you’ve torn a big hole in your glove, how can you fix it?

    Space Science Challenge

    Can you fix the astronauts glove?

    Materials

    • Masking tape
    • Sellotape
    • Gaffer tape
    • Plasters
    • Thick washing up glove
    • Water
    • Sink or Washing up bowl
    space science dieas

    Instructions for this space science challenge

    Look at the materials you have available to fix the glove, which do you think will work the best?

    Things to think about

    The glove needs to be airtight, how could you test this?

    Design several different tests to see if the glove is fixed. Possible tests could be:

    • Place your hand inside the glove and wiggle it around, does the fix stay in place?
    • Try to thread the pipe cleaners through the colander wearing the glove, it is still fixed? Is it harder to do this activity wearing gloves than not?
    • Fill the glove with water? Does it leak? If water can get out, air can get in.
    materials science

     Questions to think and talk about

    Why does an astronaut need to wear a space suit to leave the space station?

    Which material do you think will fix the glove the best?

    How can you test the glove is airtight again?

    Do you think it’s easy for astronauts to move outside the space station wearing their suits?

    Extra Activities

    Can you look at the different fixing materials under a microscope, how do the waterproof materials look different to the non-waterproof materials? 

    We loved the Zoomy 2.0 microscope from Learning Resources. 

    Opportunities for learning

    Understand that space is a hostile environment and how this is overcome to keep astronauts safe.

    Consider how the properties of materials affect their suitability for a task.

    Understand how to test up and carry out a simple test.

    More Space Science Experiments for Kids

    We’ve got some great space science experiment ideas here.

    Or, how about these fun activity ideas for learning about our Solar System?

    This activity is taken from Science Sparks the book, available from Millgate House.

    Space Science Challenge - save the astronaut's glove #spacescienceforkids #scienceforkids

    Last Updated on October 3, 2020 by Emma Vanstone

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    Safety Notice

    Science Sparks ( Wild Sparks Enterprises Ltd ) are not liable for the actions of activity of any person who uses the information in this resource or in any of the suggested further resources. Science Sparks assume no liability with regard to injuries or damage to property that may occur as a result of using the information and carrying out the practical activities contained in this resource or in any of the suggested further resources.

    These activities are designed to be carried out by children working with a parent, guardian or other appropriate adult. The adult involved is fully responsible for ensuring that the activities are carried out safely.

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