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Solar Energy Tower Design Challenge | Middle School Engineering Our Cosmos

Inspired by the true story of NASA electric propulsion engineer Peter Peterson, who plays a key role in advancing deep space travel through solar energy, this STEM unit blends engineering practices and physical science in an engaging design challenge. Drawing from the Solar Electric Propulsion project, students design and build a solar-powered welcome tower for a future lunar base. The tower must include a working light at the top and feature a switch at the base to control the light. Through this engineering design challenge, students explore and apply key science concepts including solar energy, circuits, and switches, while considering real-world challenges of powering infrastructure for life on the Moon.