Welcome to the Target Moon live simulation website. Here, you will find everything you need to run this simulation effectively in your classroom.

What is the Target Moon live simulation?
Target Moon is a live “mission” conducted in your classroom through videoconferencing. It features teams of students using real-time data to complete the mission directive. The accompanying website provides five to ten class periods of mission preparation materials including the standards addressed, scope and sequence, lesson plans, and student materials.

Is this only for math classes?
Target Moon was created to reinforce certain math concepts for grades 5-8:

• Recognize and apply geometric ideas in areas outside the mathematics classroom

• Apply tools and use formulas to accurately find the area of a circle

• Solve simple problems involving rates and derived measurements for velocity

• Understand and apply basic concepts of probability

The program is an innovative way to engage students by integrating both math topics and authentic space science in a real-time context. The website includes resources for integrating science topics.

How is the program used?

1. Schedule a mission date with the Challenger Learning Center.

2. “Brief” the students on the mission.

3. Use lesson plans provided on the website to reinforce the relevant math concepts.

   • Conduct optional careers and family involvement activities.

4. Prepare students for the mission by completing a “mini-mission” to apply math concepts.

   • Split students into teams, set up the classroom with data computers.

   • Test the videoconference link with the Challenger Learning Center.

5. Conduct mission!

In what way is the simulation conducted in “real-time”?
The mission is a student-centered, team-based, interactive educational experience that makes use of scientifically accurate data to solve problems.  Teachers run the simulations in their own classrooms through the Internet and a videoconferencing system. The classroom is connected with a Flight Director from the CLC who guides the problem-solving activities to a successful conclusion.

In the Target Moon simulation, students work in teams of 2-7 as comet trackers, moon mappers, crisis managers, and communicators. Teams work together to evaluate the danger of an approaching comet to lunar bases and astronauts. Comet trackers follow the distance and time of impact for the comet. Moon mappers determine the size of the danger area and the probability of danger for each lunar base. Crisis managers examine the implications of the danger and make appropriate recommendations to move astronauts and equipment out of harm’s way.  Communicators coordinate all these activities with the mission director.

Is this just for fun or do students really learn?
The program was designed by middle and high school teachers, educational researchers, and subject matter experts. Target Moon joins the lineup of innovative distance learning programs offered by the Challenger Learning Center and the Center for Educational Technologies. Simulations are an interactive way for you to effectively use technology in your classroom. Research indicates that this way of learning leads to improved problem-solving and critical-thinking skills and teaches students the importance of teamwork and communication.

Shifting to digital learning is critical to the success of education in America. Target Moon creates an opportunity for you to apply various technologies and provides necessary digital content lacking in so many computer classrooms.

Good luck on your mission!Download Microsoft Active Accessibility.