Gravity Powered Air Derbies Take STEM to New Heights
The Gravity Powered Air Derbies Association announces the launch of the revolutionary Launcher 2.0, a safe and innovative addition to their STEM-based bouncing rocket events, aiming to ignite young minds’ passion for science, engineering, and the arts at the upcoming Oklahoma Summit.
The Gravity Powered Air Derbies Association, a trailblazing organization committed to advancing STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) education, is thrilled to announce the Gravity Powered Rocket Demonstration at the highly anticipated Oklahoma Summit. This event will mark the first public presentation of their latest designs.
Bringing together approximately 450 STEM teachers from all over the state, the Oklahoma Summit will take place at the esteemed Tulsa Tech Peoria Campus on August 1-2, 2023. The star of the demonstration will undoubtedly be the Launcher 2.0, scheduled for showcases at 8 am and 9 am.
This incredible new launcher will revolutionize the Gravity Powered Air Derbies, events intended to promote and teach the principles of STEM in a fun and creative way. The derbies were inspired by the renowned Pine Wood Derbies but have added an ingenious twist – bouncing rockets replace wooden cars. Young contestants, called Wizards, are also encouraged to incorporate the arts into their STEM learning, transforming STEM into STEAM and fostering creativity and innovation among young minds.
The Launcher 2.o showcases many improvements, allowing for a smoother launch process at the derbies. The launcher has safe remote activation and can launch four rockets equally at the same time. In reference to this exciting new addition, Gravity Powered Air Derbies Association CEO, Gary Stout, said, “Elon Musk only launches one rocket at a time… third graders can now launch four.”
The launches are captured on slow motion video and judged in three different categories:
The Creative Art Wizard wins based on artistic impression, combining aesthetics with scientific prowess.
The Lucky Bounce Wizard claims victory based on the total distance traveled, showcasing their mastery over gravity and momentum.
The Skillful Flight Wizard triumphs by achieving the maximum flight distance, demonstrating technical acumen and precision.
In addition to the actual derby, at GravityWizards.com, aspiring young Wizards can proudly showcase their ingenious creations and exchange ideas, creating an environment of learning and collaboration. This innovative and engaging process promises to kindle the flames of curiosity, igniting a passion for STEM exploration among young Wizards.
Stout envisions Gravity Powered Air Derbies becoming a platform that excites and empowers young minds to explore the marvels of science and engineering. He hopes to encourage young Wizards to dream big and think creatively while learning essential STEM knowledge that will serve them throughout their lifetime no matter what career they choose to pursue.
About Gravity Powered Air Derbies Association: Gravity Powered Air Derbies Association is a trailblazing organization committed to inspiring young minds in the realms of STEM education. Through their derbies, they aim to bridge the gap between art and science, cultivating a passion for exploration and creativity. The organization empowers aspiring Wizards to participate, learn, and grow in a nurturing environment, fostering the next generation of innovators.
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Thank you,
Glenda, Charlie and David Cates
