Here is a introduction to a report I received by e-mail this morning. The web version is available at the Cassini web site. It continues to amaze me that we are actually exploring our solar system to this degree.
Saturn’s orange moon Titan has hundreds of times more liquid hydrocarbons than all the known oil and natural gas reserves on Earth, according to new data from NASA’s Cassini spacecraft. The hydrocarbons rain from the sky, collecting in vast deposits that form lakes and dunes.
So, kids, how might we get this fuel from Titan to the Earth. An interesting thought or problem-solving experience for students to engage in and then describe in detail their solutions. Of course would having more hydrocarbons to burn be the best thing for this planet. So an optional alternative assignment might be to describe the alternatives.
By the way, “A Bubblin’ Crude” is a reference to the 1960s TV show, The Beverly Hillbillies about an Appalachian family who finds oil on their land.
David,
Interesting assignment. Could we install a really really long tube.
Scott
Well, if we wait long enough we will have warp engines and transporters that will make this an easy problem to solve. But in the mean time, working out the time it would take to get there and back seems to be the biggest issue.
Now, I also feel real old when I knew the Hillbillies reference the second I read it……
I think this is a great idea to post a question on a blog for students to answer. This gives them more time to think about their response and to use the internet to search. Responding online rather than in a classroom usually makes students feel more comfortable because if their answer is wrong then they won’t be too embarrassed. Students can be very creative in coming up with answers when not having a time restraint of what is usually found in the classroom.
Sounds like a great way to jump-start some budding science fiction writers!
David – What I’d like know is how many of your readers got the Hillbillies reference? Does the reference create an informal poll as to age break down of your readers?
Thanks for keeping us all informed and hoping to see you back in Maine sometime.