Smithsonian Mars Dig

• Grades: 3–8
• Number of Students: 1–2 students per kit; pairs are recommended
• Number of Lessons: N/A — no fixed lesson count specified
• Hours of Content: Approximately 1–3 hours, estimated for excavation, rover assembly, and discussion
  

Highlights:

Experience the thrill of space exploration with the Smithsonian Mars Dig Kit, an immersive STEM activity that turns kids into planetary scientists. Using included excavation tools—a mallet, dowel and brush—children dig through a sand block to uncover several pieces of basalt rock, similar to samples collected on Mars. Once the dig is complete, they assemble and customize a scale model Mars rover, providing a deeper understanding of how real rovers explore the Martian surface.

The kit includes a full-color educational poster packed with facts about Mars geology, rover technology and real NASA missions. It encourages scientific thinking as kids compare their finds, track observations and discuss how basalt forms on different planets.

Perfect for classroom use, homeschool labs, science fairs or weekend projects, the Smithsonian Mars Dig Kit blends active hands-on fun with meaningful learning. Once completed, the finished rover and rock set make a display-worthy science showcase that inspires curiosity about space exploration.

What’s Included:

• 1 Sand Block Containing 6 pieces of Basalt
• 1 Model Mars Perseverance Rover Kit
• 1 Wooden Mallet
• 1 Dowel
• 1 Pair of Goggles
• Color Poster with Instructions
  

Technology Requirements/Specifications:

• Dimensions: 29.8 x 5.7 x 26.7 cm (11.8 x 2.3 x 10.5 in)
• Weight: 0.7 kg (1.55 lb)

Special Notes and Considerations:

⚠WARNING: 

CHOKING HAZARD - Small parts. Not for children under 3 years.