Beginning in the summer of 1990, the Texas Space Grant Consortium initiated a week-long professional development training for teachers. This aerospace workshop series, called LiftOff, emphasizes science, mathematics, and technology learning experiences by incorporating a space science theme supported by NASA missions. Teacher participants are provided with information, materials, and experiences through hands-on activities and field trips that will promote space science and enrichment activities for themselves and others.

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS

Mars has been a beacon for exploration and discovery since the dawn of history. Today Mars stands as a symbol of the high frontier - the next logical step in our exploration of the universe around us.

Mars challenges the explorer in each of us. Was there an ancient Martian civilization? Are there signs of life? Discover fascinating insights into how our understanding of the Red planet has grown over the past four decades and what is on the Mars horizon. Robot voyages are the advance guard, scouting out the path for the day when men will launch a manned mission to Mars.

So begins our close examination of our neighboring planet...Mars: Journey to the Red Planet.

PROGRAM FEATURES

Sponsored by the Texas Space Grant Consortium and held at Johnson Space Center, LiftOff 2004 features:

• Presentations by NASA scientists and engineers
• Tours of NASA and Space Center Houston
• Hands-on, inquiry based classroom activities
• Free curricula and space science materials aligned to educational standards
• Teacher activity share
• Opportunity to interact with researchers dedicated to space missions

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

1. currently employed as a middle or high school educator
2. minimum one year teaching experience prior to workshop
3. demonstrate a willingness to share information with others
4. must be a U.S. citizen

REGISTRATION INFORMATION

• Texas Participants: FREE
• Out-of-State: $450 registration fee + travel to Houston, Texas