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Design and Build a Rocket

INNOVATION GATEWAY CHALLENGE, PRESENTED BY BHP

This challenge is no longer active and has been completed. Submissions are no longer being accepted.

Be part of the NASA mission. Compete in a new series of challenges through our Innovation Gateway, a community science initiative. Everyday explorers – just like you – have the opportunity to provide useful solutions to further space exploration and our world.

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A Brief History of Rockets

Did you know some of the first rockets were lit around 2,000 years ago? Gunpowder and bamboo tubes were used in Chinese religious celebrations in the first century A.D. As time went on, different cultures built on the original idea to make bigger and faster rockets that were also more versatile. When Dr. Robert H. Goddard successfully launched the first liquid fueled rocket in 1926, everything changed. Switching to liquid fuel granted us control over the rocket’s trajectory and power that would eventually lead to the start of the space race.

NASA’s Mission

Rockets have played a significant role in NASA’s ability to explore and research our universe. From the space race that put the first American in space to landing rovers on Mars, rockets are the backbone of many NASA missions. NASA continues to make more powerful rockets that will soon take us back to the Moon and allow us to take the first human steps on Martian soil.

Prizes

Everyone who submits an entry for this challenge will receive a certificate of completion. Challenge winners can select from two general admission tickets to Space Center Houston or asking a question to an astronaut during our Virtual Campout program.

Deliverables:

Level 1: Design and create a rocket that launches with air or water pressure.

Level 2: Design and create a rocket that uses a chemical reaction to launch. (Do not use any reactions that produce fire or anything else that is similarly dangerous.)

Helpful hints for all levels:

  • Explore the resources provided below to find many answers to your questions about distortion goggles, including a JPL Straw Rocket activity.
  • Work with family and friends to develop your system.
  • Submit your entry by using the submission form on this webpage.
  • Be creative!

Submission:

This challenge has passed. Submissions are no longer being accepted.

Resources & Inspiration

To support your research, review these resources to help get you started.

Challenge Winners

Ages 17 & younger

Coming soon

Ages 18 & older

Coming soon

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APPLY TO RISE BY JAN. 17

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Have them apply to Rise! Rise is a program that offers students access to scholarships, mentorship, networking and career development opportunities, fostering their ability to address pressing global challenges.

Rise Initiative is a partner of the Conrad Challenge at Space Center Houston.

Moon 2 Mars Festival is back!

Tickets on sale now | March 13 - 16

The All-American Rejects are throwing Space Center Houston’s Moon 2 Mars Festival into hyperdrive. Amp up your Space City Spring Break with us!

Access to this all-ages festival is included in general admission.