JASON Learning
Inspiring and educating students everywhere through real science and exploration
JASON Learning
Unlock Earth's mysteries by understanding its geologic processes
Connect with scientists from the Smithsonian Institution, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, the National Energy Technology Laboratory, and NOAA to:
- Determine how to locate rare minerals that drive technological innovation
- Explain how a devastating volcanic eruption can drive the cycle of life
- Propose a plan to store carbon dioxide deep underground
- Investigate how gravity can point us to underwater mountains taller than Mt. Everest
- Learn how maps have aided exploration over the centuries
Mission 1: The Building Blocks – Earth’s Rocks and Minerals
Host Researcher:
Dr. Mike Wise
Geologist
Smithsonian Institution – National Museum of Natural History
Search for and discover invaluable rocks and prized minerals hidden deep under our feet.
Mission 2: Earth’s Changing Face – Weathering, Erosion, and Soils
Host Researcher:
Dr. Virginia Dale
Mathematical Ecologist
Director, Center for BioEnergy Sustainability
Oak Ridge National Lab
Scour Earth’s surface for evidence of weathering and erosion – processes that sculpt and shape our ever-changing planet.
Mission 3: Analyzing the Evidence – Dating, Fossils, and Geologic Time
Host Researcher:
Dr. George Guthrie
Focus Area Leader, Geosciences
National Energy Technology Laboratory
Unravel the mysteries of Planet Earth using ancient clues and cutting-edge technologies.
Mission 4: Earth on the Move – Plate Tectonics, Earthquakes, and Volcanoes
Host Researcher:
Dr. Walter Smith
Geophysicist
NOAA
Journey through the oceans and Earth’s outer layers to its core to better understand the dynamic nature of our planet.