STEM Heavy Lift Rocket Challenge (Falcon Heavy)

lesson overview

In response to the success of SpaceX's Falcon Heavy launch on February 6, 2018, this project was created to engage and inspire students with STEM that is literally out of this world! This STEM challenge pack includes the option of conducting a straw rocket engineering design challenge or stomp rocket engineering design challenge. Both options include handouts on Newton's Laws and forces, as well as student worksheets for every step in the design process. Connect with current events with this engaging hands-on challenge!

Topics covered in rocketry STEM challenge: 
* Forces & motion
* Newton's Third Law
* Engineering Design Process
* Variables & testing

(1) Heavy Lift Straw Rocket Challenge: Students design and build a straw rocket that mimics the Falcon Heavy rocket. It must hit a target and release a "space car" after launch. Variable Testing: Students select a variable to test in order to optimize for longest distance. 

(2) Heavy Lift Stomp Rocket Challenge: Students design and build a stomp rocket to be launched with a stomp rocket launcher. You must either purchase a rocket launcher (we used this one: http://amzn.to/2BN8yFN (*Amazon Affiliate Link*)) or build one. Students attempt to achieve the greatest flight time and launch a "space car". 

This packet includes:
- Detailed educator guide with links to resources
- Student handouts including Forces on a Rocket & Intro to Rocket Science
- Student recording packet for each step of the engineering design process

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