Do you want to learn about space flight? Whether you’re flying kites, hot air balloons, airplanes, or rockets, it’s all about the moving through air and space. Members will:
- Develop an interest in and understanding of science, engineering and technology.
- Develop problem solving and logical reasoning skills.
- Improve communication and teamwork skills by working the way scientists and engineers do - in teams.
- Develop responsible attitudes about science and how science relates to the real world and people’s lives.
- Gain experience in problem solving and decision-making using science process skills.
- Develop knowledge and skills related to Aerospace.
Imagine shooting a rocket off into space! In this project you will become an aerospace engineer as you design and create your own rocket and then watch it launch into the clear blue sky.
Show Your Skills
- Build a model rocket from a kit
- Build a model rocket from your own design
- Create a display of aviation principles
- Create a poster on specific types of planes, knowledge of how planes work
- Create a poster on how weather affects flying
Service and Leadership
- Organize a field day rocket launch to teach others about the aerospace project
- Volunteer at the local airport during an airshow or other events they may sponsor
- Lead a Cloverbud rocket workshop
- Assist or lead a beginner level rocket workshop.
- Be a mentor to a younger member learning about the aerospace project
Entrepreneurship
- Build and sell rockets
- Teach classes on building model rockets
Technology Connection
- Computer programs - design and flight predictions
- Electronics – creating a launch system
- Attach a video camera to a rocket - record results
Connecting with a Mentor
- High school science teachers
- High School physics students familiar with rocketry
- Science departments at local colleges
- Talk with your local television station meteorologist, National Weather Service, etc.
Events
- 4-H project workshops / online training webinars
- Attend a 4-H rocket launch
- Attend a science fair
- Check with local universities for atmospheric science, astrophysics, and engineering symposiums
Project Manuals & Exhibit Requirements
- Level 1: Pre-Flight
- Level 2: Lift-Off
- Level 3: Reaching New Heights
- Level 4: Pilot in Command
Purchase manuals on the Shop Illinois 4-H Store.
View exhibit requirements and scoresheets on the Illinois State Fair page.
North Dakota State University Extension 4-H project sheet
University of Florida Extension 4-H project sheet
“Rippin Rockets” - Wisconsin Extension 4-H
National 4-H curriculum - “Pre-Flight,” “Lift-Off,” “Reaching New Heights,” “Pilot in Command” “Flight Crew Helper’s Guide”
4-H Spark Sheets are a collaborative effort of 4-H staff, volunteers, alumni, and teens from across Illinois.
A big thanks to the many contributors and reviewers!