Regents Physics

The Team America Rocketry Challenge (TARC) is the world’s largest rocket contest, sponsored by the Aerospace Industries Association (AIA) and the National Association of Rocketry (NAR). It was created in the fall of 2002 as a one-time celebration of the Centennial of Flight, but the enthusiasm about the event was so great that AIA and NAR were asked to hold the contest annually.

Approximately 7,000 students from across the nation compete in TARC each year. Teams design, build and fly a model rocket that reaches a specific altitude and duration determined by a set of rules developed each year. The contest is designed to encourage students to study math and science and pursue careers in aerospace.

The top 100 teams, based on local qualification flights, are invited to Washington, DC in May for the national finals. Prizes include $60,000 in cash and scholarships split between the top 10 finishers. NASA invites top teams to participate in their Student Launch Initiative, an advanced rocketry program. AIA member companies, such as Lockheed Martin and Raytheon have sponsored additional prizes such as scholarship money and a trip to an international air show.

 
TARC is becoming bigger and better every year with the attendees and prizes growing annually. Register now to be a part of the excitement!

(Ace of Cakes at the Rocketry Challenge!)

The Catapult Competition

Event Description: Teams of two or three people will build a catapult which is designed to throw a softball as far as possible.

Specifications:

Your catapult must meet the following criteria:

1. It must have an arm designed to throw the ball. A sling may be use maximize throwing potential.

2. When cocked, your catapult must fit inside a 3m x 3m “launch box” that will be drawn on the ground.

3. When cocked, your catapult must be no taller than 2 meters.

4. Your catapult must have a triggering mechanism which will allow you to stand outside the launch box.

5. No explosions or air pressure may be used to assist the performance of your catapult. In other words, the energy used to power your catapult must be provided by the device itself.

6. Your catapult must be able to be cocked by one person.

Scoring: Each group will be allowed three launches. The best launch will be used as your score. The longest launch wins.

Competition Date: Friday, Oct. 29