The Cold Pack: A Chilly Example of an Endothermic Reaction
STEM Explained
When you hurt your ankle, thermodynamics can help you heal! An endothermic reaction reduces the swelling by cooling your injury.
The Dating Habits of Archaeologists
STEM Explained
Radiocarbon dating is a method of radiometric dating. Learn how archaeologists use carbon isotopes to find the age of organic materials at archaeological sites.
The Hovering Human
STEM Explained
Learn how a team of Canadian engineers used Bernoulli’s Principle to design a human-powered helicopter. It set a world record for human-powered hovering flight!
The Physics of Surfing
STEM Explained
Learn about the history of surfboards, and how different materials and designs over the years affected the physics at work in surfing.
The Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence - and How You Can Help!
STEM Explained
When astronomers search for extraterrestrial life, they often have to listen for radio waves coming from deep space. If you’re interested, you can help!
Tapping Underground Energy with Heat Pumps
STEM Explained
Using the heat of the Earth’s interior, you can heat your home with a ground source heat pump. This kind of heating is cheaper and better for the environment!
Telegraph Key
Interactives
The telegraph works by transmitting signals through an electrical circuit. Learn more and print your own telegraph key using this 3d model of a real artefact.
Temperature: On Earth and on the Space Station
Backgrounders
This backgrounder explains what temperature is, how it is measured, how it affects people, and how it is controlled on the International Space Station.
Temperature on Earth and on the ISS
Backgrounders
Temperature is an important part of life on Earth and life in space. This backgrounder explains what temperature is, how it affects people and how it is controlled on the International Space Station.
Testing Parachutes for Mars
STEM Explained
NASA engineers apply kinematics and dynamics to test parachutes designed specifically to help space probes land safely using aerodynamics.
Simple Machines: Inclined Planes
Picture Collections
5 images of examples where inclined planes are used to help lift or move objects such as ramps for accessibility or entertainment
Simple Machines: Levers
Picture Collections
6 images of some objects such as tweezers, scissors and wheel barrows that use the lever principle to create movement for a specific purpose
Simple Machines: Pulleys
Picture Collections
6 images of some objects such as in fitness equipment which use wheels with grooves in their rims called pulleys for movement
Simple Machines: Wheels And Axles
Picture Collections
6 images of some objects such as ferris wheels and skate boards with wheel and axle mechanisms that create rotary movement
Soaring for Sport
STEM Explained
Ever dreamed if overcoming gravity and flying away? Using aerodynamics, wingsuit jumpers get as close to flight as humanly possible.