Test rockets were launched last week as Rocket Challenge participants observed and collected important data they can use when designing their rockets.

Students learned how force propels a water rocket. By adding water to a plastic bottle and pumping in air, they built up pressure — and when that pressure was released… lift-off! Crews explored the four forces of flight (thrust, drag, weight, and lift) and worked together to identify how each force affects their rocket during flight.

We’ve now moved into the second step of the engineering design process: Imagine. This week, our crews will begin brainstorming creative designs and start building their rocket prototypes.