Expert Review: NSI International’s Smithsonian Mars Dig

The Smithsonian Mars Dig from NSI International comes with all the tools kids need to discover the same type of rocks found on Mars. Kids ages 8 and up can chisel away at a block of sand to uncover six pieces of basalt. They can also assemble their very own scale model of the Perseverance rover, which gathered samples of rocks to bring back for us to study on Earth. The kit also includes a poster with lots of information on one side and directions on the other.

Kids are learning about numerous STEAM concepts such as geology, space exploration, astronomy, and more. They can read all about the Perseverance rover and the importance of its mission, while also learning about the types of rocks and sediments found on Mars in a very hands-on and experiential way. Building the rover is simple and quick — the pieces click right into place and kids can study all the parts and learn what they do. After the “scientific research” (digging for rocks) is complete, kids can add their new rocks to their collections!

Parents or adults should make sure to set aside a sizable space to chisel the sand as it will become a little messy. Chiseling the entire block will take some time, and needs to be done gently as the rocks themselves may chip if not done carefully. The rover replica is a scale model, so it’s on the smaller side and made from small parts, which shouldn’t be left out around smaller kids.

Budding astronauts; kids who like science or space; kids who enjoy hands-on learning; kids who collect rocks