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Mission Fission

Mission Fission: An Immersive Journey into Nuclear Science and History

Mission Fission is a dynamic and groundbreaking educational program developed through a powerful partnership between the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History and Albuquerque Public Schools (APS). Designed to engage over 4,500 Albuquerque eighth-grade students annually, the program provides a rich, contextual learning experience that seamlessly integrates with the existing middle school curriculum.

APS's Signature Field Experience

Mission Fission has been established as APS's first middle school Signature Academic Field Experience, offering an immersive, in-depth exploration of the fascinating world of nuclear science and the history of the atomic age, with a special focus on New Mexico's pivotal role. The program's excellence and innovation have been recognized with the prestigious Mountain-Plains Museums Association (MPMA) EdCom Award for Excellence in Programming.

Cross-Curricular Learning Components

Co-designed by Museum and APS educators, Mission Fission utilizes six distinct cross-curricular components to foster a deeper understanding across multiple subjects. Students participate in a variety of engaging, hands-on activities, including:

  • "Radiation 101": Exploring fundamental scientific principles.
  • "60 Minutes to Doomsday": An interactive social studies application.
  • Mathematical Explorations: Focusing on concepts like trajectory, size, and proportion in the Museum's Heritage Park.
  • Language Arts & Social Studies Activities: Students take on the role of reporters covering significant historical events.

Comprehensive Educational Design

To ensure a meaningful experience, the program includes a thoughtfully designed, holistic approach:

  • Pre-Field Trip Classroom Curricula: Ensures students are well-prepared for the Museum's content.
  • The Museum Visit: The core immersive field experience.
  • Post-Field Trip Exercises: Allow students to reflect on their experience and extend their learning.
  • Career Focus: Students also gain access to a Sandia National Laboratory speakers bureau focusing on careers in STEM.

The initial launch of Mission Fission was made possible, in part, by a generous grant from the Sandia Foundation. This innovative collaboration offers Albuquerque's eighth graders an enriching educational experience, fostering a deeper sense of place and a greater understanding of the region's significant history and scientific contributions.