Overview

What are the benefits and possible drawbacks of humans exploring the galaxy?

This unit’s essential question is, What are the benefits and possible drawbacks of humans exploring the galaxy? Readings investigate whether we could survive and thrive on other planets, where else we might live, the motives for (and history of) space exploration, the diverse hidden or well-known figures who have played key roles in making space exploration (and the budding space tourism industry) possible, and poems, prose, and science fiction about space. Independent projects offer students an opportunity to further explore real-life or imaginary space exploits and heroes.