Microsoft has come to terms with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) to teach the basics of Python programming. Interestingly, the basis of these programming lessons is NASA’s space exploration efforts.
Microsoft partners with NASA to teach Python programming
“We wanted to cultivate learning by connecting content to something interesting, relevant, and most importantly, inspiring for learners of all ages—whether they are 8, 18, or 80,” said Margaret Price, Principal Design Strategist at Microsoft.
Three new Python modules inspired by NASA scientists revolve around the US space exploration efforts, as follows:
- Introduction to Python for space exploration
- Classify space rocks by using Python and artificial intelligence
- Predict rocket launch delays with machine learning
These modules will introduce budding computer scientists to the types of space exploration problems that Python can address. You can also learn how to create an AI model that classifies various types of space rocks in random photos. It will also introduce you to machine learning methods to address real-world problems that NASA faces.
“The goal is to get students excited and curious to discover how machine learning could help solve other problems in space discovery and different aspects of life,” Price added.
Introduction to Python for space exploration
This module will introduce learners to what Python as a programming language is all about. It will also teach how to install Visual Studio Code, how to install extensions to enhance the Visual Studio Code experience, how to install Python, and why Python is a popular programming language.
Classify space rocks by using Python and AI
This module will help you learn about space rocks and how to classify them. What’s more, it will also prepare you to research space rocks by means of AI. It will also teach learns how to analyze images of rocks, courtesy of artificial intelligence. Last but not least, learners will be able to classify types of space rocks in random photos with the help of AI.
Predict rocket launch delays with machine learning
This module covers the introduction to rocket launches, data collection, and manipulation techniques, in addition to building a machine learning model. For more details about these courses, check out this blog post.
