Introduction Did you ever wonder what it would be like to be a member of a team of astronauts and cosmonauts on the International Space Station ? Although the team is made up of individuals with special skills, they all share a few things in common -- a solid understanding of concepts in science and math and extensive training in working as a team. This challenge will give you a better idea of just how difficult basic tasks can really be when you're orbiting high above Earth.
In this Docking Challenge, you and your teammates will take on the roles of NASA astronauts and mission control personnel. Your challenge is to design and test a docking set-up that simulates a docking between the Space Shuttle and the International Space Station . The Challenge requires effective communication skills, keen insight, and the ability to analyze a situation from many perspectives. Like the crew and mission support staff, you will first have to rendezvous the shuttle with the ISS before the actual docking maneuvers can be performed. Navigating the Space Shuttle in space is a lot different than moving around on the surface of the Earth, so we've designed some exciting Background and Training activities to get you ready for your mission. | 
