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From Monday 16th November 2009, as part of The Scout Association's development of one fully integrated website for Members, the information contained on this page is no longer being maintained. For up to date information please visit the following link: Scouts: Astronautics Activity Badge

Complete the requirements below:

1. Explain the purpose of space exploration including:

   • Historical reasons.

   • Immediate goals in terms of specific knowledge.

   • Benefits related to Earth resources, technology, and new products.

2. Chose one topic below and with it undertake Option One or Two:

   1. A commercial or scientific rocket (Ariane, Delta, Soyuz, Proton, Zenit, etc).

   2. The NASA Space Shuttle.

   3. The International Space Station.

   4. A specific satellite (e.g. Envisat, Cassini, Aurora, etc).

   5. An unmanned space probe.

   Option One

   Describe the topic's primary mission purpose; explain the functions of the component parts, together with a brief history and accomplishments of a specific mission and what was learned from that mission.

   Option Two

   Build a scale model of or about the topic, either from a commercial kit, or from plans available from the Internet or model clubs and shops.

3. Discuss and demonstrate two of the following:

   1. The law of action-reaction in the context of rockets and zero or low-gravity environments.

   2. How rocket engines work, and their lift-off and re-entry procedures.

   3. How satellites stay in orbit and the different types of orbits they use.

   4. How satellite pictures of the Earth, planets and their moons are made and transmitted.

4. Complete all of the activities in one of the following Alternatives:

1. Explain the Safety Code for Rocketry and be able to identify the principal parts of a rocket.

2. Describe how solid and liquid propellant rocket motors work.

3. Build, launch, and recover a single or double-staged model rocket.

4. Make a second launch to accomplish a specific objective. For example, carrying a fragile payload, aerial photography, altitude measurement, temperature measurement, parachute recovery, remote control, building a launch controller or launch pad.

Notes

This activity must follow the appropriate BMFA/UKRA safety codes on Rocketry.

1. Describe how space satellites and probes have added to our knowledge of the Solar System.

2. Build an accurate scale model of a space exploration vehicle. Find out about its design, function, and basic operation. Be able to help others learn about your vehicle.

3. Design an inhabited base space colony. What conditions will you need to overcome to ensure suitable living arrangements, energy sources, special equipment, health and safety needs, and environmental protection or danger? Share and explain your design or model with others.

4. Using photographs, news clippings, electronic/internet articles etc, mount a display about a current space mission and share your findings with others.

1. With a group of Scouts, plan and participate in a themed 'Space Camp' or event, undertaking appropriate activities.

2. Assist in organising a visit to a space centre, museum, planetarium or rocketry enthusiasts group and share your experiences with an adult or other Scouts.

3. Make a list of the things an astronaut must have to survive for 14 days in a closed capsule, indicating how much of each is needed.

4. Find out about careers in the space industry.

Notes

If you need help designing alternatives to these requirements for those with special needs please contact the Special Needs Office at Gilwell Park.