Design Challenge 6

Before you draw your design for a Mars lander, make sure you use the steps outlined in Lesson 7, The Design Process. Your problem, as engineer, is to design a Mars lander that will reach the surface of Mars without damage, then activate to gather specific information about the planet's surface and atmosphere. This particular lander will also have the capability to "rove" on the surface to collect samples. Design your lander to be operational for at least 30 days.

Here are some references to help you with your design:

	Official Mars Lander Web Site
	Mars Lander Fact Sheet
	NASA Mars Curriculum

Search the NASA web site for additional information.

Don't be limited by the actual design of the Mars lander. Use your imagination, but work within the constraints of the problem. When you have completed your design, please share it with us. Email your .cad, .jpg or .gif file to us.

If you enjoyed designing a Mars lander, you might be interested in participating in NASA's Mission to Mars contest. Also, NASA has designed an online game for you to practice landing the Mars Lander.

Click here to view student solutions to Design Challenge #6 Mars Lander.

After you have viewed solutions, you may make comments below.

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Mars Lander Diagram. Image Source: NASA, not copyrighted. Click on picture for a larger view.

3D picture of Mars Lander (requires 3D glasses). Image source: NASA, not copyrighted. Click on picture for larger view.

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