280 Planetary Exploration and Education: How We Learn About Our Solar System and Beyond
This session links how we teach and learn about the solar system to how we have gained that information (i.e., space missions). Descriptions of teaching activities/courses, and strategies for working with students are encouraged.
Wednesday, 22 October 2025
1:30 PM - 5:30 PM
HBGCC, 214B
Keeping Samples in the Syllabus: The Use of Extraterrestrial Materials Across All Educational Levels
Paper number: 280-10
Program: Technical Sessions
Time: 4:00 PM – 4:15 PM
Authors
Abstract
As one of the largest university-based meteorite collections, with 2500 samples available for scientific and educational loans, the Monnig Meteorite Collection at TCU offers unique hands-on experiences. Managed through a world-class museum, the Monnig has a 20-year track record of Earth and planetary science outreach in the DFW metroplex and beyond. By leveraging its collection and expertise, the Monnig provides immersive sample-based STEM programming while tapping into the enduring public fascination with space
While much attention has been given to early exposure in K–12, bringing extraterrestrial samples into all levels of instruction, from undergraduate general education to graduate research courses, is a powerful and underused strategy for deepening engagement and expanding access to planetary science. Hands-on activities involve students in the learning process and make lessons more engaging. When students physically interact with real materials they are more likely to stay curious and focused. This kind of experience builds confidence in scientific thinking especially in STEM fields where students often struggle to see the relevance of what they are learning. That confidence is critical to shaping identity and persistence in science
Importantly these experiences also benefit non-STEM students who may never have imagined themselves connected to the space science, or even STEM, narrative. Meteorites offer an accessible interdisciplinary entry point into scientific reasoning and help build scientific literacy and reasoning skills in students from all backgrounds and interests
To increase access to planetary sample science the Monnig is developing a new lending library consisting of ten identical sets of meteorites and related terrestrial rocks and minerals available in both hand sample and thin section formats. These sets will be available on loan to educational institutions nationwide and accompanied by modular learning units designed to integrate
Geological Society of America Abstracts with Programs. Vol. 57, No. 6
doi: 10.1130/abs/2025AM-414326
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