make your own space rocket
We explore our solar system by using many different tools. There are telescopes that help us take a closer look at space while our feet are firmly planted on the ground. There are satellites that are sent into space that are useful in collecting and sending information. And then there are rockets or space capsules that send astronauts into space to explore things first hand. For young children, it is the excitement of rockets and space exploration that heightens their interest in astronomy. In the paragraphs that follow, you will be able to read more about how you can make your own rocket ships to learn more about the expansion of space.
To make a rocket that actually launches, you’ll need a piece of paper, a canister of 35mm plastic film (this canister is important as it’s usually exactly the same size in diameter as most antacid tablets, like the one you you will need to have). to make your rocket fly), cellophane tape, scissors, an effervescent antacid tablet (effervescent), paper towels, and water. You’ll also want to make sure you have the appropriate safety materials on hand, such as a supervising parent and safety glasses.
Making the rocket is part of the fun because you get to decide exactly what your rocket will look like based on how you decide to cut the paper. You can cut it to make a short rocket or cut it to make a long rocket body. Just be sure to make the diameter the same size as the diameter of the film cartridge, as it will need to fit snugly into the body of the rocket. You can try both and see which one flies better. You can also experiment with how you make the nose of the rocket. Try a sharp warhead or a blunt warhead. A nose cone can be made by making a circle of paper and then rolling the circle on itself to form a cone. Once you have finished cutting the paper for your rocket, wrap and tape the paper tube around the film canister, making sure to tape the end of the canister lid all the way to the end of the paper before you begin. to wrap If you wish, you can make and glue fins to the body of your rocket at this point in your rocket construction. Next, roll out the circle cutout for the nose and tape it to the top of the rocket.
To send your rocket flying, the first thing you’ll want to do is make sure you’re in a location that allows for a safe launch. Launching your rocket outdoors and in a field away from trees and power lines is ideal. You’ll also want to put on your safety glasses at this point. Flip the rocket upside down and remove the lid from the canister. Fill the container with a third of water. Drop half of an effervescent antacid tablet into the container and quickly replace the lid tightly. As the pressure of the bubbling tablet increases, it will eventually become too much for the canister to hold and the rocket will lift off when all of the canister’s pent-up energy is released.
If you want to experiment with other types of chemical reactions that result in a rocket taking off, other combinations that have a powerful reaction are the combination of baking soda and vinegar and mentos (breath mints) with a diet drink. Use this craft as an activity to follow a lesson on astronomy, astronauts, and space travel.