Basic planetary replicas of Mars illustrate the shape, surface texture, and color of the planet. Kids can create this replica using a paper mache technique. The materials needed include a balloon, newspaper, glue and paint. Kids will make the paper mache out of the newspaper and glue (see the References section for tips on making paper mache). The paper mache mixture is applied to the surface of an inflated balloon. After the newspaper and glue have dried, the planet is painted red and can be hung with a string and included in a model of the entire solar system.
Like Earth, Mars has many natural wonders. Based on information gained from remote expeditions and telescopic images of Mars’ surface, scientists have identified features such as Olympus Mons, which is the biggest mountain in the solar system at 78,000 feet; and Valles Marineris, which is a series of canyons measuring approximately 2,485 miles in length. Students can explore the distinct appearance of these locations on Mars through the creation of surface replicas. For example, kids can create a clay or paper mache model of Olympus Mons and the surrounding cratered area.
Scientists have speculated on the possibility of life on Mars, and replicas of Mars can be used to explore these possibilities. Evidence of erosion on the surface of Mars has caused scientists to consider a past when Mars might have been covered with oceans or lakes. The presence of water implies the possibility of other forms of life, such as plants. Using surface replicas made of clay of various colors to represent soil, water, and plant life, kids can construct models of what Mars might have looked like in the past. Similarly, kids can also build replicas of what Mars' future might look like in the event of successful terraforming to reintroduce water and create stable atmospheric conditions for life.
Edible replicas of Mars offer kids a fun and tasty way to explore the layered construction of the planet. Using materials such as red colored icing for the core, Rice Krispie treats for the mantle and red colored sprinkles for the crust, students can learn the basic layers of the planet. Chocolate chips can be used to represent the large volcanoes along the surface of Mars. After students have completed the replica they can eat their creation.