Table of Contents

Finding Your Way Through Geometry of Space Navigation

Geometry of Space Navigation is structured as a virtual trip from Earth to the International Space Station. This web-ready learning resource is organized into five sequential stages called phases. Each phase is represented by its own clickable graphic icon on the main menu below.

Each phase represents a stage in the space shuttle's virtual journey to the International Space Station. The resource begins with the lift off of the space shuttle from the launch pad during Phase 1, aptly named Lift Off. The journey ends with a successful docking at the ISS in Phase 4 and an examination of the ISS solar arrays in Phase 5, prior to embarking on the return voyage. As the resource is meant to be a representation of an actual trip to the ISS, it is recommended that the phases be completed in sequence.

Once the phase icon is clicked on the main menu, the student enters a screen such as the one below from Phase 1.

The resource is based on an intuitive design in order to make navigating easy. On the upper right corner is the graphic header representing each phase. It is similar to the icon from the main menu.

• a. Each phase contains subsections organized according to content knowledge. The title of each subsection is indicated in the upper left corner.

• b. The screen number is indicated in the white box below the screen. The screen counter indicates the total number of screens in the phase, as well as the number of the current screen being displayed.

• c. Most screens contain a sequence of information and interactivity. To view the next part in the screen sequence click "Next". Once you have come to the end of the sequence on a screen, the Next button will become deactivated, signalling the end of the screen.

• d. Clicking on the Replay button will replay the current screen.

• e. Click on the forward button to advance to the screen that follows. If you wish, you can click the Back button to return to the previous screen.

• f. Click on the Menu button to return to the Main Menu to select a different phase.

• g. Once you have reached the last screen of a phase, a printable Space Navigation Log becomes active. In the log, students can record what they have learned on their journey.

• h. Audio begins automatically. Should it not be considered appropriate to use the audio, it can be turned off at individual computers.