In the Space Trek Rocketry program, participants will learn the basics behind rocketry and the simple physics that moves them. They will also learn about the history and the future of rockets as we know them here at NASA.

Students will work in teams to construct a Water Rocket using parts that have been designed, 3D printed, and laser cut in our fabrication lab. Each team is comprised of individuals working together with separate roles that simulate positions on a small scale NASA launch team. After construction, students will choose these roles and have different duties based on each role they have been assigned.

Bottle-rocket Engine Thrust Acquisition (BETA) System - Student teams will collect both theoretical and experimental data for their rockets. The theoretical data will be collected using our uniquely designed BETA system. The BETA System uses a force sensor coupled with signal conditioning and sophisticated programming to collect data from the rocket's engine. This is very similar to how NASA performs rocket engine testing. The real-time data is collected using a flight computer on board the rocket during experimental launches.

Finally, teams compete to launch their rockets into specific orbits, without damaging the payload due to too much acceleration. Team with the highest accuracy wins medals and all participating students receive certificates.