RESULTS FROM THE STS-107/COLUMBIA ELEMENTARY STUDENT CRYSTAL GROWTH EXPERIMENT

One of the most basic methods to get children interested in science, especially earth science, is with experiments. When experiments can be combined with the US Space Program, then the chances for holding the interest of children increases. Presented are the results of a volunteer effort dedicated to providing elementary students (Kindergarten through sixth grade) access to experiments involving the microgravity of space flight. Scientists from Lockheed Martin (and their children), Texas A&M and Oklahoma State, donate their time and act as mentors to the participating teachers and students. Most of the expenses related to the education about space flight are shouldered by Lockheed Martin Space Operations, Houston TX and Instrumentation Technology Associates, Exton, PA. This effort is centered on reaching children at an early age and exposing them to the challenges, especially the fun of science and mathematics. The current experimental design and overall learning processes concentrate specifically on crystal growth as geared to the elementary student. The crystal growth experiment was manifested on STS-107 (January 2003). Initially, the launch was delayed nineteen times prior to the January launch date. Prior to conducting the experiment, we discuss various lesson plans with the teachers to hone their earth science lectures in regards to understanding/appreciating basic crystal growth and structure. The experiment is broken down into major topic sessions (usually six) of no more than one hour each. The experiment is national with schools from several states participating. The poster/presentation displays lesson plans, experiment design, materials required, student hypotheses, control and experiment results (the crystals were recovered from the Columbia debris) as well as information on how elementary schools may become involved in future space experiments. Because of the STS-107/Columbia tragedy, discussions were also held on the coping/healing processes of the students.