Keep It Cool

Deep Space Diary

Activity 3.3

One of Webb’s special instruments – the Mid-Infrared Instrument or MIRI – detects infrared light emitted by objects in space and creates images of them. MIRI must be kept at -266 degrees Celsius to capture infrared light, which is thirty degrees cooler than Webb’s other instruments. Because of this, engineers have developed a special cryogenic cooling system for it. This activity allows students to explore how materials can act as insulators and conductors, by trialling a range of materials.

Subjects

  • Spiritual
  • Moral
  • Social and Cultural (SMSC)
  • Design and Technology (DT)
  • Primary Science / Working Scientifically

Learning Methods

  • Design and Invent
  • Draw
  • Research
  • Thinking Skills
Keep It Cool

Support Materials

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