Python Pros! The Curious Mission to Mars

Discover the complexity of space communication and code a simple Mars Rover simulator just like the pros at NASA – with Python programming!

  • For ages 11-14
  • 16h Course (Holiday Camp)
  • 1:6 Instructor:Student Ratio
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For Ages 11-14

Did you know Python’s one of the most commonly used programming languages for processing space data? Learn about how messages are transmitted in space and discover how tech will take humanity through the galaxy. The next giant leap for mankind could start with you!

KEEPIN’ IT SHORT & SNAPPY

  • See how space communication works and transmit your own messages
  • Learn about gravitational force and prototype an application
  • Code a Mars Rover simulator to explore life on Mars
  • Required to have taken Puzzle Out with Python Programming first

All you need to know

3..2..1 Blast off!

Before we set foot in space ourselves, we’ve got to learn all that we can about these extraterrestrial terrains (and possible aliens) – with the help of satellites, and rovers.

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Discover how messages are transmitted in space through radio waves and learn how to transmit and decode your own messages with code.

Build a Data Conversion GUI Application

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Then, see the effects of gravitational force in the solar system and prototype a programme that will allow you to calculate your weight on different planets.

Since Python is a text-based programming language, you’ll also learn how to design a Graphic User Interface (GUI) for your code! This’ll come in real handy for others to understand what your code actually does.

Code Your Adventures on Mars with a game & simulation

NASA is on a journey to Mars, with a goal of sending humans to the Red Planet in the 2030s. How crazy is it that we could possibly visit Mars some time within the next 20 years!

The Curiosity rover is in the midst of gathering all sorts of data on Mars for future human explorers as we speak and here’s how you can get a little taste of your own mission to Mars.

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Code a game to control where the Curiosity rover moves on Mars, adding in more advanced programming concepts like collision detection.  

 

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You’ll also learn how to program a text-based simulation, where users can send commands to the rover and ask it to do specific tasks like drilling to collect test samples. 

The only way to discover what lies beyond our home planet is to use programming languages and technology. After all, that’s how we got to the moon back then!  Embark on your mission to Mars and discover the world of space exploration with code.

Oh! The stuff you'll learn

  • Learn about TkInter, Python’s standard Graphical User Interface (GUI) library
  • Learn how users can interact with buttons and text boxes
  • Strengthen understanding of functions
  • How to write advance mathematical formulas in Python
  • Introducing while loop
  • Learn how to make games in Python Turtle
  • Learn how to detect collision
  • Learn how to move the turtle using the mouse
  • Code a text-based adventure on Mars
  • Presentation time: On your last day, share with your parents what you’ve learnt!

Life skills you'll learn

Game Design
Logical Thinking
Problem Solving
Systems Thinking

Pedagogy

No lectures. No memorisation. No ONE right answer. Like real life, we're all about trying things out yourself, failing, figuring what went wrong & trying again. These are the skills & mindset that will last a lifetime and how we learn in real life. Let's get kids to learn how to learn. Because the kids who learn to learn become curious, inventive, resourceful human beings who solve real world problems to make a meaningful impact.

Peek into our classrooms

Have a look behind the scenes

Your kid will love it

If your kid doesn't think it's the best thing ever after attending the first 2 days of holiday camps (or first 3 weeks of term classes), and would like to withdraw, we'll issue you a 50% credit note of the amount paid.

  • 1:6 Maximum Instructor-Student Ratio
  • All equipment & materials provided
  • Open source tools: Continue the learning at home!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. My child is new to programming. Will he / she be able to follow?

The Python Pros! The Curious Mission to Mars course is designed for kids who have experience with coding in Python. If your child is new to programming, we recommend that your child completes our Back to Basics: Zeroes to Python Heroes course first to get a solid foundation in Python and programming concepts.

 

2. My child is younger than 10. Can he / she join?

The Python Pros! The Curious Mission to Mars course is recommended for kids who are 10 and above. Your child should have completed our intermediate course, Puzzle Out with Python Programming course first.

 

3. I’ve enrolled my child, what will he/she need to bring?

We’ll provide all equipment and materials needed. You might wish to bring a drink, some light snacks and a jacket just in case your child gets cold or hungry. 

 


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