“The Launch of the Space Shuttle from the Kennedy Space Centre was postponed today because of the predicted high winds in the area.”

You may have heard this said on TV or the radio about a NASA rocket launch. 

Your task:

1. In groups, discuss the weather conditions that might endanger a rocket launch. Make a list and nominate a spokesperson to say why you came up with this list.  
2. Design a way of recording all weather conditions for a period of a month. You could use a computer with a database or a spreadsheet (if available). You might get some help from a teacher interested in Maths, Computers or Geography.

Follow-up work:

1. Design and make a piece of equipment that would measure one aspect of the weather, such as rainfall or wind speed. You must calibrate the equipment as accurately as you can.  
2. Check the accuracy of the weather forecasts which are given on the radio, television or the news. Make sure that you can read the weather maps and understand the symbols. What are isobars?
3. Design and make a weather vane which would indicate wind directions. Remember, it must stand outside and be able to survive all adverse conditions and still work. Ask the Chairman of the governors to judge and select the best design and ask if it could be made and fitted to the school.

Watch this video about how weather can impact a rocket launch.