NOAA Photo Library/Family of Rear Admiral Leo O. Colbert, C&GS
April 5, 2006
To Boldly Go
We're all explorers in our own way, whether we hike beyond a distant hill, turn over a rock in a tidal pool, or check out the new mall in town. Exploring helps us to learn our environment as well as satisfy our curiosity about new places. Science is providing tools to explore even farther—to the depths of the oceans, to the inner workings of molecules, and into space.
Science fiction writers are explorers too. We use our imaginations. That doesn't mean we don't use tools, however. If I want to write a story about going into a new environment, I'd start by deciding what technology and equipment would be most helpful. Try this for yourself.
Challenge: Gearing Up
Imagine you are preparing to explore each of the following environments. Think about what it would be like. Make a list or draw any special equipment you'd want to take. Hint: You can invent your own tool or device, if you think you'll need it.
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| NOAA Photo Library/Captain Harry D. Reed, C&GS |
- Into the Volcano
A tunnel has been found that leads into the heart of a volcano. Early reports indicate that a person could walk almost to the end of the tunnel before encountering an obstacle. But there's a poisonous atmosphere inside, and it's very hot. You want to sample molten rock from within the volcano and analyze its contents. What would you wear? How would you collect your sample?
- In the Abyss
You've been granted the use of the latest submersible craft. You want to explore a deep underwater abyss and look for life. You can attach whatever you wish to the outside of the craft, but you can't go outside yourself. What would you attach?
- A Lunar Landing
You've been working on the moon for a month and now have permission to go outside the research dome and explore the surface. You'd like to collect as many examples of lunar rock and dust as possible, but there isn't a vehicle available for your use. You need to take with you something to help bring back your samples. Hint: Think about gravity on the moon.
- Treetop Triumph
You are part of a group that'll be studying what lives in the very tops of rainforest trees (the canopy). You need to stay in or above the treetops for at least a week, without coming back to the ground. The trees are easily damaged, so you can't climb them or cut into them. What will you use to stay in the canopy? How will you record your results? Don't forget that you need to study life at night and during storms as well.
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| NOAA Photo Library/C&GS Season's Report Hough 1924 |
If you wish, send your ideas to us at scifizone@snkids.com (or fill in the form below). If we use your idea, you may be eligible to win a prize! Please include your first name, age, city or town, and state. If you are under 13 years old, get your parent's permission to write to us.
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