In viaggio con Rosetta
[Voyage with Rosetta]

Summary

The project featured six sessions of around two hours each.

• We began by using literature and mythology to provide an introduction to comets, with examples and illustrations. Next, we looked at what comets are in more detail and learned about the Rosetta probe and the 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko using clips, drawings and models. The participants created their own stories, combining fairy tales, mythology, science and experiments using miniature models.

• In the two subsequent sessions, the participants were invited to create objects inspired by the voyage of Rosetta using salvaged materials. After making an initial plan on paper or using a tablet, computer or other device, they were able to choose resources from the specially prepared salvaged material to create one of the protagonists of Rosetta’s space voyage that they found particularly interesting. During the making phase, the girls and the tutor learned more about the function and significance of each part of their models, thereby combining reflections of the function of the models with their own artistic impressions.

• As part of a discussion on how robots and their sensors work, we presented small mobile robot kits, simulating the approach of Rosetta and the comet on a section of “land” designed by the girls. Next, the girls programmed their “Rosetta” using Scratch software to make the craft navigate in space and release the lander.

• At the end of the programme, we organised a session with Amalia Finzi to show the girls her experience in the sector. There was also a session in which the participants invited families, teachers and friends to show them their Rosetta, drawings and models.