The first lecture is followed by a 10-15 minute break. A second lecture covers more specific topics including variations in planetary atmospheres, and robotic exploration of the solar system. Demonstrations involving dry ice and liquid nitrogen are used to help understand how materials act on cold solar system bodies and to introduce basic principles of physics and chemistry. The children will have several minutes to ask questions of planetary scientists. Finally, the children are given a tour of SJI s research laboratory and static displays, including a piece of the San Juan Capistrano meteorite.
Field trips are approximately two hours and fifteen minutes long.
This fee can be paid by check or in cash and can be paid in advance or at the time of the field trip. The fee primarily covers the cost of materials. Adults are expected to help supervise the children, especially during breaks. This is particularly important because SJI is an active planetary science research facility. The field trip schedule for the school year often fills early in the year.