Mars: Guarding or Watching? A 10,000-year Orbital Study Test
Physics and Astronomy
Nikola Lukow
- Grade:
- 8
- Teacher:
- John Mann
My project uses a Python simulation tool to see how Mars influences the Asteroid Belt. I chose this project because I am interested in in both astronomy and programming. My conclusion is that Mars has little to no influence on the Asteroid Belt. I think that this is important because people are trying to learn more about Mars.
Why did you decide to use classes for this simulation? Was there an advantage to using an object oriented langauge such as python rather than another language?
I am incredibly impressed by how you used real astronomy data and a professional-level simulation tool to explore such a big and complex question. The way you tested your hypothesis, analyzed the data mathematically, and honestly accepted that your hypothesis was incorrect shows outstanding scientific maturity and curiosity. Kudos!!
This is an exceptional and highly advanced project. You tackled a real astrophysics question using professional‑grade tools, and your work shows deep understanding, strong reasoning, and impressive technical skill for an 8th‑grade researcher. Your use of NOIRLab’s REBOUND simulation, along with data from NASA and JPL, demonstrates genuine scientific rigor. You went above and beyond! You clearly explained your variables, controlled your simulations well, and supported your conclusions with both graphs and numerical evidence. Your discussion was especially strong.
The narrative about your learning process and setbacks is very impressive. You should consider a career in Astronomy or space physics. You did exceptionally well with this project!
Saw you on Goosechase 😉
Python is the only coding language I have been exposed to so far, and it is also the language the simulation tool is in.