UK Space Agency launches STEM initiative

The UK Space Agency is partnering with The National Physical Laboratory (NPL) in the launch of a new STEM initiative, Space Rocket Challenges.

The challenges, taking place between 16-30 June, will give participants the chance to design their own space rocket, make a rocket at home and learn more about the UK’s space sector.

There will be three challenges that are open to all ages and include: a Space Rocket design competition, Launch and Land challenge – as part of NPL’s regular Measurement at Home series, and a space-themed quiz.

Entries are welcome from schools, individuals, teams, and families. Experts at NPL and UK Space Agency will judge all entries and prizes, including a 3D-printed model of the winning rocket design and a tour of British Aerospace Manufacturer, Reaction Engines’ facility in Oxfordshire.

Professor Richard Crowther, Chief Engineer, UK Space Agency said: "The UK has played a pioneering role in space science for over 50 years and today our ambition is to be Europe’s leading small satellite launch destination. We look forward to seeing the creativity and imagination of these young engineers. Perhaps one day they could be designing the rockets we see launching from UK spaceports, propelling us into a new era of space exploration."