Explorer Science and Technology Badge (UK Space Agency)

Explorer Science and Technology Badge (UK Space Agency)

A smart man called Carl Sagan once said, "Somewhere, something incredible is waiting to be known," Start your journey of space exploration here, and who knows? Something incredible could be waiting for you.

The UK Space Agency aims to inspire the next generation of UK scientists and engineers by introducing Explorer Scouts to the exciting and growing world of space engineering and space science. The practical and problem-solving skills developed through Scouting, along with the enthusiasm for science shown by Scout Leaders, could be instrumental in encouraging this future generation of space scientists and engineers.

You should be aiming to work towards this badge over a period of 6 to 12 months.

Choose 1 of the following options:

1. Meteorology

   1. Regularly record weather observations and measurements over a period of time. You can break up the time if you like – you don’t have to keep continuous records.
   2. Demonstrate your skills in meteorological recording and observation to a group of young people.
   3. Give a detailed explanation of the formation of clouds and the weather associated with different clouds and fronts.
   4. Find out detailed information about how weather maps are produced. Show how you interpret them for use in Scouting activities.

2. Mechanic

   1. Regularly maintain a mechanical machine over a period of time. You should use the time to learn a variety of techniques.
   2. Demonstrate your mechanical knowledge. Explain the principles of operating an engine, gearbox and differential axle.
   3. Talk about the safety rules for machine maintenance and how you use the skills you’ve learned responsibly.

3. Radio communication

   1. Regularly take part in an activity involving in a method of radio communication. You should use the time to learn a variety of techniques and recording activity and develop your skills.
   2. Demonstrate a radio communication method to a group of young people.
   3. Talk about the rules or codes of practice for radio communication and how to use equipment responsibly.
   4. Share your knowledge of radio communication alphabets and internationally recognised call signs and signals.

4. Electronics

   1. Regularly take part in an activity involving electronics. Use the time to learn a variety of techniques and equipment and improve your skills.
   2. Show and explain your project work in electronics to a group of young people. You’re not expected to play the role of an instructor and an appropriate adult should supervise your group.
   3. Demonstrate a detailed knowledge of circuits, components and the symbols used in electronics.
   4. Discuss the safe working practices of electronics and how to use equipment responsibly.

5. Astronomy

   1. Learn the meaning of technical astronomical terms. Give a detailed description of our galaxy and solar system, including planets and other bodies.
   2. Demonstrate your skills in astronomy, including recording and observation, to a group of young people.
   3. Regularly take part in an astronomy activity. Use a variety of instruments, record your observations over a period of time and show improvement in your skills.
   4. Demonstrate a good knowledge of the history of space exploration since 1969.