ROCKET SCIENTISTS

Maths, Physics and Space Science

This extremely popular course provides the opportunity to research the history of space travel and explore, from a technical viewpoint, the design of vehicles that make it possible.

The course opens with a study of physics and aerodynamics, including Newton’s Three Laws of Motion, Bernoulli’s Principle and an explanation of the “Triangle of Fire”.  To reinforce this learning, students work in pairs to plan and construct a model rocket between them, following strict design criteria.

Computer-based calculations of flight profiles for the rockets that have been built will be confirmed by test flights on the final morning of the course (subject to suitable weather).  Forget air and water powered rockets that can be bought in model shops – we will be using gunpowder as our fuel and an element of the course includes the necessary safety briefings.

A Presentation to Parents at the end of the course provides the opportunity for students to provide feedback on the performance of their rockets and their design considerations.

 

The rockets are made from basic components

The engine mounting is not so simple

which the students modify to their own requirements

and requires ingenuity

 

Construction in the classroom is always

Students document the design considerations

under full supervision

of their rocket

 

Blast Off !!

.....and a safe return to Earth

The pyrotechnic rocket motors used are specifically designed for this course and remotely fired. This means that they are both exciting and safe. The students do not handle any form of explosive at any time and safety is paramount.

Please click on the logo above to view a Quicktime movie of an actual launch 

(downloads a 5MB file)

With thanks to one of my students, Richard Tolson, who provided the movie