"Scientists and engineers learn about the world by using careful tools and observations to study things that are hard to see, hard to reach, or hard to build."
Ask the class before watching:
"What is something you can’t easily see or reach (like air, a tiny germ, or deep ocean water), and what tool or method could help you learn more about it?"
Scientists who study space, like stars and galaxies.
Astronomers use powerful telescopes to look for galaxies that are so dim they almost disappear into the background of space.
The pulling force that makes things fall toward Earth and keeps planets in orbit.
Even if a galaxy is hard to see, gravity can still tug on nearby stars and help scientists know it’s really there.
Tools that help a robot or machine detect information, like movement or position.
The robot’s sensors helped it notice when it was leaning too far during a kung fu move so it could correct quickly.
The variety of different living things in a place.
Exploring a dark underwater cave can reveal biodiversity, including tiny animals that live nowhere else.
Have students answer these questions after watching the episode.