This week, the spotlight in schools is on a fascinating topic: what would it be like for humans to live on the Moon? Recent announcements from NASA have reignited curiosity about lunar exploration, making it an ideal theme for primary school assemblies and classroom discussions. What’s Happening in the News? NASA’s Plans for the Moon NASA officials have revealed new ambitions for human activity on the Moon. While not indicating that astronauts will live there permanently, plans are underway for extended stays to support scientific research. Howard Hu, head of NASA's Orion lunar spacecraft programme, stated that lunar homes would be necessary to support crews during these missions. The upcoming missions include a crewed flyby, followed by an actual landing—signaling the first time in half a century that astronauts will set foot on the Moon since Apollo 17 in December 1972. Why Return to the Moon? One of the main drivers for NASA’s lunar plans is the search for water at the Moon’s south pole. Water is essential for supporting astronauts, both as drinking water and potentially for producing fuel. Additionally, the Moon serves as a natural testing ground for technologies that may later be used to send humans to Mars and further into space. Scientists and historians also see immense value in studying the Moon’s surface to deepen our understanding of our solar system and the wider universe. What Might Life Be Like on a Lunar Base? Living on the Moon poses unique challenges and experiences, including: Environmental Differences: The Moon’s lack of atmosphere means the sky always appears black, even during lunar daytime. Life Support: To venture outside, astronauts need a Portable Life Support System (PLSS), ensuring oxygen supply, removal of carbon dioxide, and protection from extremes of hot and cold. Low Gravity: The Moon’s gravity is much weaker than Earth’s, making people weigh less and changing movement—astronauts need to hop rather than walk normally. Everyday Life on the Moon Daily routines would differ greatly on a moon base. Food preparation, exercise, and even leisure activities would need to adapt to the lunar environment. Students are encouraged to imagine and discuss which aspects of life would be most difficult or interesting in this setting. The History of Moon Landings The Moon has captured human imagination for generations. On 20th July 1969, Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin became the first people to step onto the lunar surface during the Apollo 11 mission. Alongside Michael Collins, who remained in orbit, they made history in an expedition watched by an estimated 650 million people worldwide. In total, 12 astronauts have walked on the Moon between 1969 and 1972, conducting experiments, gathering rock samples, and inspiring generations of explorers. No human has set foot on the Moon since Apollo 17’s landing in December 1972, marking 50 years since the last lunar visit. Learning About the Moon Earth has one rocky, cratered, and dusty natural satellite: the Moon. It orbits Earth every 27.3 days, reflecting sunlight and creating phases that change its apparent shape. The gravitational pull between Earth and the Moon causes ocean tides. The Moon is about a quarter the size of Earth and lies an average of 238,855 miles (384,400 kilometres) away. Moon Observation and Art Activities Classrooms can explore the Moon further through creative activities. Students might keep a Moon Observation Journal, recording its phases over days or weeks. Moon-inspired art can also be created, experimenting with different materials to capture its colors, shapes, and textures. Gravity paintings, where runny paint drips on paper, can help students visualize differences in gravity between Earth and the Moon. Classroom and Assembly Discussion Points What do students know about the Moon? What facts can they collect? How might life differ on a moon base, from eating and exercising to hobbies? Would anyone be interested in visiting, or even holidaying on, the Moon? How did Armstrong and Aldrin feel stepping onto the Moon for the first time? Why do you think humans haven’t returned since 1972? Consider recent milestones in science, and compare them to personal firsts, like starting school or learning new skills. Vocabulary for This Week Lunar: Of or relating to the Moon. Permanently: Always or forever. Crew: A group working together, especially on missions. Expedition: A planned journey for exploration or research. Mission: An important task or job someone is sent to do. Decade: A period of ten years. Reflection: Respecting Opinions and Embracing Curiosity Students are encouraged to share their thoughts and feelings about lunar exploration, recognizing that everyone’s opinions and reactions are valid and valuable. Reflecting on such extraordinary achievements can inspire curiosity and respect for different viewpoints, both in space exploration and in everyday life. More to Explore This Week For those looking to deepen their understanding or get involved in creative activities, there are dedicated resources and discussion opportunities available online. Explore the latest Picture News resources here: https://picture-news.co.uk/free-sample Join our latest discussion here: https://picture-news.co.uk/discuss Explore our recent events and training here: https://picture-news.co.uk/training Delving into the potential of human life on the Moon sparks questions, discussions, and creativity—making it a captivating topic for assembly and classroom learning.
