Activity: Making a Topographic Map and Profile of an Asteroid

Materials: (per group)

aquarium tank or deep-sided pan, modeling clay, ruler, cardboard (enough to fit the bottom of the tank or pan), pane of clear glass, grease pencil, sheet of unlined, white paper (2), one liter of water, pencil and pen, scissors, marble or beads of various sizes

About this Activity:

This activity involves a laboratory investigation where students will construct a topographic map and topographic profile of an asteroid.

Procedures:

  1. Do a brainstorming activity on topography.
  2. Set up materials at each lab table ahead of time.
  3. Place duct tape around the edges of the pane of glass for safety purposes.
  4. Give each student a hand-out that explains the lab procedures.
  5. Divide students into lab groups.
Lab Handout: Making a Topographic Map and Profile of an Asteroid
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[LMGFP home page] Contact Karen Krupinsky (kgurley@gsfc.nasa.gov) or
Tammy Seergae (tseergae@umd.edu) for further information.