Coming back to Earth safely | Teach with space PR53

How can we slow down satellites so that they return to Earth? In this classroom resource, we will learn how the drag force can help satellites slow down. We will demonstrate the activity by using helicopter spinners and trying to slow them down with sugar paper or cling film. What will be the result?

Languages: English, French

Subject: Science, Design Technology, Engineering, Maths

Age: 7 – 11 years old

Keywords: satellite, orbit, friction, air, area, reentry, atmosphere

Learning objectives:

• Understand that drag is a type of friction that can exist between objects and air

• Understand that increasing the surface area of an object increases the amount of drag it experiences

• Understand that space debris such as satellites can be slowed down by drag, and this can be utilised for space debris removal techniques