Need to blow the stink off your kid? Go big with a simulated trip to Mars at the Rochester Museum and Science Center's Strasenburgh Planetarium on Saturday, May 5, 1:30-3:30 p.m.

"During the Challenger Mission, kids work together to achieve two goals: building and launching a probe to the surface of Mars and rescuing a crew from space," says Steve Orcutt, director of the Challenger Learning Center. Kids work in groups such as the medical, communications, and navigation teams. Activities include using robotics to handle pseudo-hazardous chemicals, and assessing the damage a meteor shower caused to solar panels.

This interactive, hand-on program run by Monroe No. 1 BOCES is tied to New York State learning standards. "Kids practice math, science and technology skills they'll be assessed on in school," notes Orcutt. Suddenly, being a space cadet is a good thing.

The minimum age is 7, and adults must accompany kids ages 7 to 10. Adults $16, kids $13. Pre-registration required.  Call 271-4320 or visit www.rochesterchallenger.org.

Arrive early and check out Invention Convention. Eighty area students will present original invention models for judging at the planetarium 1-3 p.m. Twenty will compete at a state-wide event in June. "The snake light started out at Invention Convention. Black and Decker bought the patent from a child," says Dr. Calvin Uzelmeier, RMSC's manager of exhibits and floor programs. Some inventions are currently on display. Admission is free. Go to www.rmsc.org, or call 271-4552 ext. 344.