Build a Launch Pad

1. There are a few ways you can build a launch pad. The key engineering components the kids need to address, no matter what materials they use, is that it needs to be stable and just the right size to hold our rocket (an upside-down 2 litre pop bottle) without it slipping through.

Building the Rocket

1. See the supplies above to build the rocket.

Preparing for Launch

1. You will want to do this in a fairly open area. 

2. Take a clean bottle. Feel free to decorate it and make it really look like a rocket.

3. Set your launchpad in a nice big open area, on nice solid ground.

Fuel Up The Rocket

1. Place approximately 1 – 2 cups of vinegar in the bottle.

2. Take a piece of paper towel and cut it to about 4 inches square.

3. Place about a tablespoon (we used a HEAPING tablespoon… my teens love a BIG blast off!) of baking soda in the centre of the paper towel. Fold up the paper towel so the baking soda is wrapped up inside and it fits snugly inside the mouth of the bottle.

4. Insert a wine cork into the mouth of the pop bottle, make sure it is in there tightly.

Blast Off

1. You need to move quickly for this next part. Flip the bottle over, place it in the launchpad and move back quickly!