Launchpad: Newton’s Laws On-Board the International Space Station
Join astronauts on-board the International Space Station to learn more about Newton's laws. Learn about the inverse relationship between mass and acceleration when calculating force and see what the equation f=ma has to do with rockets.
Discussion and writing prompts
1. Newton's Laws of Motion apply on Earth and in space. Choose one of Newton's three laws and explain how it is demonstrated on the International Space Station. Use examples from the video to compare how the same law applies on Earth.
2. Astronauts must carefully control their movements aboard the International Space Station because every action produces a reaction. How do Newton's Laws help astronauts move safely and efficiently in microgravity?
3. NASA engineers rely on Newton's Laws when designing spacecraft, tools, and equipment for use in space. Why is understanding the relationship between forces and motion essential when creating technologies for astronauts?
4. Imagine you are designing a new tool or piece of equipment for astronauts to use on the International Space Station. Explain how you would apply one or more of Newton's Laws to ensure your design is safe, effective, and easy to use in microgravity. Include specific examples of how forces, mass, or motion influenced your design decisions.
Background Information
Grades 6 through 12
- NASA STEMonstrations: Newton’s First Law (video)
- NASA STEMonstrations: Newton’s Second Law (video)
- NASA STEMonstrations: Newton’s Third Law (video)
Grades 8 through 12
- NASA Glenn Research Center Newton's Laws of Motion (webpage)
- NASA Glenn Research Center Rocket Principles (webpage)
Activities
Grades 3 through 6
- NASA JPL Planetary (Egg) Wobble and Newton’s First Law (webpage)
Grades 3 through 12
- NASA Newton’s Laws of Motion (webpage)
Grades 4 through 8
- NASA JPL Make a Straw Rocket (webpage)
Grades 4 through 9
- NASA JPL Stomp Rockets (webpage)
Grades 5 through 8
- NASA eClips Spotlite Interactive Lesson: Objects at Rest (Student Packet / Teacher Packet) (pdf)
Grades 6 through 8
- NASA Christa’s Lost Lessons: Newton’s Laws (pdf)
Grades 9 through 12
- NASA Flight Testing Newton's Laws (website)
- NASA Introduction to Newton's Three Laws: Lesson 1 (website)