Council Rock Chapter • Engineering Challenge

Mars Lander ChallengeEgg Edition

"You’re NASA engineers landing a fragile research probe on Mars. The egg represents sensitive scientific equipment that cannot crack."

Mission Summary

A hands-on physical science challenge for 6th graders focusing on impulse, gravity, and structural engineering.

The Mission Briefing

You’re NASA engineers landing a fragile research probe (an egg) on the Red Planet.

Lander Design

Build a structure using limited resources to protect your scientific payload.

The Drop Zone

Official 'High-Altitude' drop tests from the gym bleachers or ladder.

Debrief & Analyze

Analyze energy transfer, structural failure, and design iteration.

Protocol & Logistics

Engineering Rules:

  • •Egg must be fully enclosed
  • •Structure must fall freely (no parachutes on people)
  • •No external cushioning on the ground
  • •One official test drop per team
  • •Design must be explainable

Gym-Safe Setup

  • Drop from bleachers or step ladder
  • Target tarp for clean landing
  • Crack test happens post-retrieval

Mission Supplies

  • •1 Raw Egg (The Payload)
  • •Straws & Tape
  • •Paper Cups
  • •String
  • •Paper Towels / Tissue
  • •Cardboard Landing Base
  • •Tarp & Cleanup Kit

What They Learn

  • ✓Understand Energy Transfer & Dissipation
  • ✓Define Impulse (spreading force over time)
  • ✓Engineer Structural Design & Crumple Zones
  • ✓Practice Iteration and Tradeoffs
  • ✓Connect failure points to real physics

Reflection Questions

"Where did the force go in your design? What part failed first? Would a heavier design be better on Mars?"

Launch Details

Location

Holland Elementary School

Crew

6th Grade Students

Duration

60–75 minutes

Materials

Given

Hosted by: STEMEPA Volunteers