This paper presents strength and thermal studies, as well as an analysis of the design material for the development of a nanosatellite model. By using the SolidWorks software environment, an effective solid-state finite-element model of a nanosatellite are developed, on the basis of which the stress-strain state of the nanosatellite is analyzed,…

Google Earth has made a wealth of aerial imagery available online at no cost to users. We examine some of the potential uses of that data in illustrating basic physics and astronomy, such as finding the local magnetic declination, using landmarks such as the Washington Monument and Luxor Obelisk as gnomons, and showing how airport runways get…

Students in an introductory physical geology course often have difficulty making connections between basic course topics and assembling key concepts (beyond textbook examples) to interpret how geologic processes shape the characteristics of the local and regional natural environment. As an approach to address these issues, we designed and…

Constructing concept sketches (diagrams annotated with short captions in which students demonstrate their understanding of form, process, and interactions) provides a new and different way to teach Earth surface processes and assess the depth of student learning. During a semester-long course in Geomorphology, we used concept sketches as an…

This article will demonstrate an approach for discovering and assessing local landscape change through the use of remotely sensed images. A brief introduction to remotely sensed imagery is followed by a discussion of relevant ways to introduce this technology into the college science classroom. The Map Detective activity demonstrates the…

The Infrared Astronomical Satellite (IRAS) is a survey instrument that has provided an overall view of the infrared sky and identified objects that merit further investigation. A description of the IRAS and examples of the types of astronomical data collected are presented. (JN)

An introduction to satellite meteorology is presented to promote use of live weather satellite photographs in the classroom. Topics addressed include weather satellites, how they work, earth emissions, satellite photography, satellite image analysis, obtaining satellite pictures, and future considerations. Includes sources for materials to…

Provided are two tables which contain the latest orbital and physical characteristics of the planets and their main satellites. These tables are part of a series of information materials available from the Astronomical Society of the Pacific, 1290 24th Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94122. (JN)

Describes Neptune through Voyager 2 including the discovery, location, atmosphere, ring arcs, radiation, two satellites, and Voyager's goals. Provides several diagrams and pictures. (YP)

In August, 1981, National Aeronautics and Space Administration launched Dynamics Explorer 1 into polar orbit equipped with three cameras built to view the Northern Lights. The cameras can photograph aurora borealis' faint light without being blinded by the earth's bright dayside. Photographs taken by the satellite are provided. (JN)

The CADET Project Modification computer analysis, and both hard copy map-like images and computer tapes are available to the public. A mainframe computer program that permits an Apple microcomputer user to select a particular 40 by 40 pixel sub-scene from a Landsat computer compatible tape and download it to Apple computer diskette via telephone…

Discusses the velocity of an orbiting satellite. Knowledge of the kinematics of falling objects is the only prerequisite for understanding the concepts considered. (DH)

Discusses remote sensing principles and applications and the status and needs of remote sensing education in the United States. A summary of the fundamental policy issues that will determine remote sensing's future role in environmental and resource managements is included. (Author/BC)

Spurred by National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) technological advances, a budding industry is manufacturing equipment and providing services toward better management of earth's resources. Topics discussed include image processing, multispectral photography, ground use sensor, and weather data receiver. (Author/JN)

Provides information about and suggestions for using orbital satellite-carrying amateur radio (OSCAR) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) satellites for instructional purposes. (JN)