To figure out the total cost of the mission to Mars.

component
trade-off
instrument

Materials

pencil or pen, paper
"Mission Cost" card
scissors to cut out the card
tape

1.

Everyone will come to you with the cost of their part of the mission. Add these together in the table below.

2.

If the mission costs more than $150 million, it may be too expensive to be selected as a Discovery mission. Talk to your team-mates to see if there are any decisions that would lower the cost of the mission. What would they have to give up to reach $150 million?

3.

If the mission costs less than $150 million, and you have enough time, ask your group if it is possible to add any more mission goals or science instruments without going over the budget.

4.

When everyone finally agrees on the mission design, add up the costs again and write the Total Mission Cost on the "Mission Cost" card. Be ready to put this card on the Mission Planning Board on the final day.

5.

Be ready to explain some of the cost trade-offs on Presentation Day.

6.

Tell the Coordinator the total mission cost.