Mars Update

Mars Update begins with a brief overview of how our views on Mars have changed over the years - from H.G. Wells and Percival Lowell to the Mars Exploration Rovers Spirit and Opportunity. From there we look at where to find Mars in the current night sky as well as the current status of the various spacecraft working at Mars, what they've discovered, and what other spacecraft have been or will be doing on Mars.

Mars Update is recommended for ages 4 and up. Teachers interested in bringing a school group should consult the Tennessee Curriculum standards information listed below.

Mars Update is now showing for public audiences through March 2010. School groups may book a group reservation by calling (615) 862-5177 at least two weeks in advance.
Watch the Trailer

For More Information

Mars Update is recommended for Grades 4 and up.

TN State Science Standards

Conceptual Strands

Grade Level Expectations (GLE)

5th Grade

Earth and Space Science
  • GLE 0507.6.1 Compare planets based on their known characteristics.

6th Grade

    Earth and Space Science
  • GLE 0607.6.2 Describe the relative distance of objects in the solar system from earth.

High School

    High School Earth Science
  • CLE 3204.1.2 Examine the components of the solar system.
  • CLE 3204.1.4 Investigate the history of space exploration.
High School Physical Science
  • CLE 3202.4.2 Relate gravitational force to mass
High School Conceptual Physics / Physics
  • CLE 3237.Inq.1 / CLE 3231.Inq.1 Recognize that science is a progressive endeavor that reevaluates and extends what is already accepted.

Other Subject Standards

  • Earth Features 9.0
  • Forces and Motion 11.0
  • Reading 1.0