From meteorites to impact craters: a geologic journey through the Solar System

Introduction

We present here an interactive outreach activity for schools which can be adapted for students ranging from elementary school to high school. The objective is to divulge information about the origin of the Solar System and its planets, with a special focus on meteorites, impact processes and mapping on the surface of Mars and the Moon. The activity is structured in two parts which are detailed below. 

Meteorites and the origin of the Solar System 

In this activity the students had to get into the role of a planetary scientist, learning how to recognize and characterize a meteorite from the macroscopic and microscopic point of view. After a short presentation the activity starts with the macroscopic characterization. We provided the students with two boxes in which meteorites were mixed with terrestrial rocks, tektites and foundry slag. The task is to recognize the meteorites mainly based on the presence of fusion crust, specific weight and magnetism. The second part of the activity consisted in characterizing chondrite thin sections under the petrographic optical microscopes. We introduced the classification of chondrites with a short presentation, and then we gave the students a chart they had to follow to help them with the characterization, which focused mainly on chondrule abundance, chondrule shape and size and amount of metal phases.  

Solar System bodies + mapping activity

This part of the activity starts by making the students familiarize themselves with some general information about Solar System bodies such as the Moon and Mars. This is generally delivered through a short powerpoint presentation. We then proceed to explain to students their practical activity, which consists in mapping some craters and other geologic features either on the Moon or Mars. In this task they are asked to draw geologic contacts and identify geologic units on the selected image. This is done on a semi transparent sheet of paper which is overlaid on a plastified image. This activity can be done alone or in small groups. At the end of the task students will also be invited to find a suitable landing site area within the mapped region. To enhance interaction and discussion between the participants this is done all together while images of slopes and other engineering constraints are shown to them on a projector. 

Application 

This outreach project has been applied as a part of Piano Lauree Scientifiche (PLS), L-34 Geologia, at the Department of Geosciences, University of Padova, Italy. PLS is a national program aimed at Italian high schools, promoting enrollments in scientific degree courses, reduction of university dropout, and other initiatives aimed at students and teachers. The Department of Geosciences has proposed several actions and activities during the last years including laboratories, self-assessment, exhibitions and excursions, to create continuity between the last three years of high school and the first year of university. This specific project was delivered as a 2h-long laboratory activity to two high school classes. 

Final remarks

Our strategy adopts an engaging approach, making use of mostly practical activities, such as planetary mapping and observation of meteorites under the microscope. Such a dynamic learning environment goes beyond the traditional classroom setting and makes learning much more enjoyable for the students, while also enhancing their learning experience. With just some mindful adjustments, similar activities can be effectively adopted even for younger children, giving them the possibility to experience the same level of engagement and learning.