Enhancement Activities

1. Listen to/watch video

a. What does the Main Propulsion System consist of?

b. What 2 scientific measurements are critical to the proper functioning of the MPS and the Space Shuttle Main Engines?

c. Why aren’t the main engines of the Space Shuttle used after liftoff?

2. Learn More Section – click on SSME map

a. Why is the high pressure fuel turbopump coated with nickel?

b. What are the functions of the Main Engine Controller?

National Science Education Standards:
B.2.3 – Unbalanced forces will cause changes in the speed or direction of an object’s motion
CS – Many different people in different cultures have made and continue to make contributions to science and technology
G.1.1 - Women and men of various social and ethnic backgrounds engage in the activities of science, engineering, and related fields
G.1.2 - Science requires different abilities, depending on such factors as the field of study and type of inquiry
G.3.1 – Many individuals have contributed to the traditions of science

National Council of Teachers of Mathematics:
D.1.1 – Understand both metric and customary systems of measurement

National Education Technology Standards:
A.1.2 – Students are proficient in the use of technology