Programming is centered around Naval careers and based on the Office of Naval Research’s Science and Technology areas of focus. Below are some of those focus areas, along with their application and related lesson plans.

Aviation

• Involves the study, design, and operation of aircraft and aerospace vehicles, covering areas like aerodynamics, meteorology, air traffic control, and management.
• The Department of Defense applies aviation science to design, operate, and advance aircraft and aerospace systems that enable mobility, combat operations, surveillance, and national defense missions.
• Access lesson plans centered around this topic:Wind Tunnel Testing PDF | Paper Circuit Helicopter PDF

Biomimicry

• Draws inspiration from nature's solutions to solve human problems and create sustainable technologies, by mimicking natural structures, processes, and systems.
• The U.S. Department of Defense applies biomimicry by studying nature’s designs—such as animal movement, sensory systems, and self-healing materials—to develop more efficient, resilient, and adaptive technologies for defense and security.
• Access lesson plans centered around this topic:Nature-Inspired Homes PDF | Bio-Inspired Protection PDF

Oceanography

• The study of the ocean, including its physical, chemical, biological, and geological aspects, and how these interact, and how the ocean affects climate and marine life.
• The Department of Defense uses oceanography to understand and predict marine environments, improving naval operations, submarine navigation, underwater surveillance, and overall maritime security.
• Access lesson plans centered around this topic:Flinkers PDF | Aluminum Foil Vessels PDF

Biomedical Engineering

• Biomedical engineers apply engineering, biology, and medicine to improve human health, ranging from designing artificial joints to developing advanced drug delivery systems.
• The Department of Defense utilizes biomedical engineering to develop advanced medical technologies, protective equipment, and rehabilitation systems that enhance soldier health, survivability, and performance.
• Access lesson plans centered around this topic:Engineering Bandages PDF

Remote Sensing

• The science of acquiring information about the Earth’s surface, atmosphere, or oceans from a distance, typically using satellites or aircraft to measure reflected and emitted radiation.
• The U.S. Department of Defense uses remote sensing to collect and analyze satellite, aerial, and drone data for intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and operational decision-making across global environments.
• Access lesson plans centered around this topic:Build a Satellite PDF | GPS Modeling PDF