Hello makers and space travelers!
Our Makers Mission to Mars explores science, technology, and the magical mysteries of space. These at home or classroom activities investigate habitability, and prepare for human exploration with the creation of space tools and contraptions! Have fun adventuring galaxies with these out of this world crafts!
DIY Stargazers
Let’s explore the wondrous and expansive natural beauties of space!
Create your very own stargazer to see beyond Earth’s stratosphere and gaze upon the stars that fill our universe!
What You Will Need:
Toilet paper or paper towel tube
Craft Paper
Coloring supplies (markers, colored pencils, etc.)
Acrylic or tempera paint
Painting supplies (brushes, water, cups)
sequins/glitter
Clear plastic sheet
Tape/Glue
Scissors
Foil/reflective Sheet
Pipe cleaners
Tissue Paper (optional)
Instructions:
Begin by wrapping your cardboard tube with a colorful piece of craft paper and secure it down with glue.
Decorate your star gazer with drawings and paintings of our solar system. Don’t forget to include your favorite planets – and get creative!
Line the inside of your cardboard tube with foil and secure it down with glue.
Next, trace 2 plastic circles with the end of your cardboard tube, and cut these out.
Glue one circle into the end of your cardboard tool and allow this to dry.
Now to select your stars! Lay sequins down and drop glitter onto the plastic circle at the end of your stargazer.
Glue or tape the second plastic piece on top of the first plastic circle – to secure the sequins and glitter in place. Note: leaving space between the plastic will allow the glitter and sequins pieces to shift around as you move your star gazer!
Add on any final touches and then you're ready to see the stars! Bring your stargazer outside and look into it towards the sky - what do you see?!
Fantastical Space Dioramas!
Create your own world and use storytelling to build knowledge on the science of space. These dioramas are a great way to explore artistic style and medium, all while focusing on STEAM-based thinking. Want to take your diorama to the next level?… They are also great for stop motion animation! Capture the movement of stars and planets as they rotate and float within galaxies!
What You Will Need:
Cardboard box or shoebox
Craft Paper
Recycled materials and Cardboard
Yarn/String
Scissors
Glue/tape
Coloring Supplies (markers, colored pencils, etc.)
Paint + painting supplies
Modeling clay
Tissue paper (optional)
Felt (optional)
Camera or iphone with stop-motion app (optional)
Instructions:
The first step to creating your own galaxy diorama is covering the surface of the cardboard box. Use glue to lay down craft paper on all walls – and add texture by additionally including tissue paper.
Add on additional elements by painting or drawing stars, galaxies, and other creative decorations.
Create your planets by drawing or painting them on paper – which you will then cut out. You can alternatively create your planets with felt and/or recycled materials to create more 3D or textural forms!
Sort your planets and hang them by string in your diorama – this can be secured with tape or glue.
Continue exploring and adding unique creations such as clay aliens or rocket ships!
Wanting to try stop-motion? Check out our stop-motion animation tutorial here!
Marvelous Marbled Planets
Ever wanted to travel to another planet?
These marvelous marbled planets will take you on a journey through new environments and worlds!
This activity is a great sensory experience for makers who love to explore textures and designs while learning about space and science!
What You Will Need:
Shaving foam
Tray
Craft paper
Scissors
Tempera or acrylic paint
Popsicle stick
Instructions:
Cut out the shapes of your planets from selected craft paper.
In a tray, spray the shaving foam in roughly the amount that would cover your piece of paper.
Using the paint, add drops and lines of multiple colors on top of the shaving foam.
Next, take your popsicle stick and begin to lightly mix and swirl your shaving foam to create a marbled effect with the paint.
When ready, press your piece of paper onto the shaving foam, remove, and gently scrape off the excess foam with your popsicle stick.
Leave to dry and your planet is complete!
Want to learn more about space?
Here are our book recommendations for sharing fun and educational stories with your kids!
You have completed your Mission to Mars successfully!
Thanks for joining us on this galactic journey – we hope you enjoyed it just as much as we did!
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