Hydro Rocketry

The challenge

Build and launch a water-powered rocket that demonstrates stable flight and effective use of pressure-driven propulsion.

• ✓Design a water-powered rocket using permitted materials.
• ✓Optimise the rocket for stable and controlled flight.
• ✓Demonstrate an understanding of pressure and propulsion.
• ✓Prepare the rocket for a supervised launch.
• ✓Be ready to explain the major design decisions.

What you need to do

Teams will prepare their rocket before the event and demonstrate its performance during the competition.

• ✓Construct and test the rocket before arriving at the venue.
• ✓Check the body, fins and connections before launch.
• ✓Prepare a brief explanation of the design and working principle.
• ✓Follow the official launch procedure.
• ✓Make modifications only when permitted by the organisers.

Design and preparation

The design should balance stability, durability and aerodynamic performance.

• ✓Use only materials approved by the organisers.
• ✓Ensure all structural components are securely attached.
• ✓Keep the design stable and suitable for supervised launch.
• ✓Test the rocket in a safe environment.
• ✓Do not use combustible or explosive propulsion systems.

Evaluation

Teams will be evaluated on engineering design, scientific understanding, flight performance and presentation.

Safety rules

Water rockets involve pressurised systems and must be operated only under the supervision of the event team.

• ✓Follow the official launch procedure at all times.
• ✓Use only approved launch equipment and materials.
• ✓Never point a pressurised rocket towards people.
• ✓Do not use combustible or explosive materials.
• ✓Any unsafe design may be removed from the launch.