"Science and engineering use tools—like space telescopes, robots, and fossils—to gather evidence and solve big mysteries about how the universe works and how Earth has changed over time."
Ask the class before watching:
"What is one tool (a machine, a device, or even a “clue” like a footprint) that helps people learn about something they can’t see directly, like outer space or the distant past, and how does it help?"
The path something takes as it goes around a planet or another object in space.
If a satellite’s orbit gets too low, a careful space “boost” can help move it into a higher path around Earth.
Related to robots or machines that can do tasks by following programmed instructions.
A robotic helper spacecraft could line up with a telescope and give it a tiny, controlled tap to change its route over time.
Making a large number of the same item in a factory-like way.
With mass production, a company could build many identical humanoid robots so schools and labs could test them in similar ways.
The remains or trace of a living thing from long ago that has been preserved in rock.
Even a small fossil bone from Antarctica can give scientists clues about what the planet was like millions of years ago.
Have students answer these questions after watching the episode.