This Computing video supports teachers in introducing how data is transmitted across space, using the Mars Rover as a real-world context. The lesson explains how scientists at NASA rely on the rover to collect and send information—such as photographs, weather data, and rock samples—back to Earth across millions of kilometres. Pupils explore historical methods of communication, from smoke signals and postal riders to Morse code, and compare them to the use of radio waves. They learn that the Mars Rover transmits data using ultra-high frequency (UHF) radio waves, which can travel through space, bend around obstacles, and cover great distances without wires or physical contact.

This video is part of Kapow Primary’s Computing scheme of work – videos. It builds teachers’ subject knowledge and prepares them to guide pupils in understanding the practical challenges of digital communication over space. Through engaging storytelling and comparisons with everyday distances and technologies, the lesson contextualises how data is transmitted and received in space exploration. It encourages curiosity and introduces children to key computing and physics concepts in a cross-curricular way.

Computing, Upper key stage 2, Year 5, Data handling: Mars Rover 1, Lesson 1: Mars Rover