Mission control

On Earth, we use a variety of cues to sense the position of our bodies, while stationary or moving. We use touch and pressure cues (such as weight on our feet) and visual cues (such as the location of the ceiling and floors) to determine orientation.

In an environment with less gravity, the brain needs to relearn how to use these sensory signals. In space, astronauts free float, so there are no pressure cues to the bottom of the feet. Their visual system can be fooled because there may be no distinct floor or ceiling in a spacecraft. In addition, information from the balance organs of the inner ear needs to be reinterpreted by the brain so astronauts can move in weightless or low-gravity conditions.

In this activity students will perform throwing and catching techniques on one foot, to improve their balance and spatial awareness.

To find out more about Mission X, visit https://www.stem.org.uk/esero/primary/competitions-and-challenges/mission-x