Space Race

Challenge
A Found Objects Project

Background
Newtons 3rd Law states that For every
Force, there is an Equal and Opposite Force
In the book it says it this way: For every Action
there is an Equal and Opposite Reaction

In Space we use Newtons 3rd Law to move.

To get into orbit we must reach a minimum
orbital speed, and be above the atmosphere
A Circular Low Earth Orbit requires that the satellite is
a minimum of 200 km above the Earth at a minimum
speed of 6,900 m/s

Project Requirements
Build a device that will travel at least
5 cm along a fishing line stretched
across the classroom:
Using ONLY the principles of Newtons
3rd Law (i.e. Action/Reaction Forces that
would work in the vacuum of space)

Restrictions:
You cannot push against a person, the wall, the fishing
line or any other stationary object to move. You are in
space, they dont exist!
You cannot use propellers, fans, or wings to move.
Space, remember?
You cannot have a stationary device that is attached to
the wall, line, etc. and then is left behind. i.e. no
cannons, slingshots, catapults, etc.
No fire or smoke (especially no model rocket engines)
No water rockets or other devices that will create a
mess in the room
No high-pressure containers made of hard materials
like metal or PVC
It must be made with found items. This means that
you will need to get materials to build it. No Pre-made
Kits!
It must attach to the hanger on the fishing line
It must be removable from the hanger after you are
done

To Win the Contest

Since achieving orbit requires that a satellite
be placed above the atmosphere, and going at
a speed fast enough to orbit, both speed and
distance are requirements!
The winning team will have the device that
achieves the greatest combination of speed &
distance.
Your score will be determined by multiplying
your highest speed by the maximum distance
you travel.

Schedule:
Wednesday: Work on & test your
device
Thursday: Work on & test your
device
Friday:
Run your devices for
score!