WATER ROCKET

🎯 Overview

• In this challenge, participants design and launch water-powered rockets using principles of physics, pressure, and propulsion. It’s an exciting hands-on activity that blends STEM learning with creativity, teaching students about energy, design, and precision.

🛠️ Rocket Design Requirements

• The rocket must be made primarily from plastic bottles (e.g., PET bottles).
• Only water and air pressure may be used as propellants.
• No other propulsion methods (chemical, electric, combustion, etc.) are allowed.
• Mechanical launching ideas are allowed.
• The rocket may include fins and a nose cone for improved stability.
• A parachute is mandatory for safe descent.
• Maximum rocket length: 1.5 meters.
• Hazardous or unsafe materials are strictly prohibited.

👥 Team Composition

• Maximum of 2 members per team.
• Categories:
• Grade 4 to 7 – Category 1
• Grade 8 to 12 – Category 2

📍 Launch Area & Setup

• The launch area will be designated on the event day
• Teams must bring their own rockets, launch setup (if required), and accessories.
• All rockets will be inspected to ensure compliance with safety and design regulations.

🎯 Performance Categories

1. Air Time Category

• Rockets are scored based on the total air time from launch to first contact with the ground.
• Each team will have two launch attempts.
• The best air time will be considered for scoring.
• After launch, the rocket must deploy its parachute and descend safely.
• The rocket must land within the designated launch field boundaries.
• Any rocket that lands outside the competition area will be disqualified.

2. Design & Creativity

• Teams will also be evaluated on innovation, structure, stability, and presentation of their rocket.

📋 Scoring Criteria

⚠️ Disqualification Conditions

• Launching before the official signal.
• Using unapproved materials or methods (e.g., chemical fuels, electronics).
• Unsafe or irresponsible behavior during the event.
• Failure to comply with size, safety, or registration requirements

🕐 Event Flow

• Each team will have two launch attempts
• Water volume and air pressure may be adjusted between attempts.
• A brief explanation (2–5 minutes) is required before each launch (subject to referee’s discretion) covering:
• Design choices
• Launch mechanism
• Safety considerations
• Expected performance