Team Wangdue wins the National Space Challenge 2024
Team Wangdue emerged victorious in the National Space Challenge 2024 with their innovative hydro rocket design featuring aluminum fins and a 3D-printed nose cone. Their rocket covered an impressive horizontal distance of 101.2 meters surpassing the efforts of 16 other competing teams. Chhukha and Dagana secured the positions of first and second runners-up respectively.
The teams were assessed on factors including distance covered, design innovation, material optimization, safety measures and teamwork. The challenge, themed “Hydro Rocket Development and Launch” took place from February 17-23 coinciding with Bhutan’s annual Space Week.
Seventeen teams, each comprising three class XII students and a teacher from 17 Dzongkhags excluding Gasa, Bumthang and Mongar participated after being selected through an online aptitude test from a pool of 332 applicants.
Hydro rockets are an educational tool that uses water as a propellant. Participants utilized plastic bottles filled with water, sealed tightly and pressurized with air. Upon reaching sufficient pressure, the air expelled the water through a nozzle, launching the rocket. This cost-effective method provided students with hands-on learning experiences, promoting inclusivity and STEM education.
According to the Government Technology (GovTech), the event aimed to develop skills in systems engineering, material optimization, critical thinking and teamwork. Participants gained insights into hydro propulsion principles, aerodynamic design, material science, problem-solving, collaboration and safety engineering.
Pema Tenzin, a student from Bajothang HSS expressed how the challenge deepened his understanding of rocket systems and the underlying scientific principles.
The final rocket designs were launched and evaluated on the fifth day followed by a seminar where participants showcased their designs and shared their experiences.
The Offtg. Chief of Telecom and Space Division under the Government Technology (GovTech), Kiran Pradhan shared that the challenge aimed not only to teach participants the basics of rocketry but also to instill knowledge of systems engineering, aerodynamics and other sciences along with essential soft skills necessary for future careers.
With a total budget of Nu.0.5 M, the Government Technology (GovTech) jointly with Jigme Namgyel Engineering College (JNEC) and the Ministry of Education and Skills Development organized the challenge at JNEC in Samdrup Jongkhar.
The closing ceremony was graced by the Hon’ble Lyonpo for Education and Skills Development along with the Hon’ble GovTech’s Secretary among others. Addressing the students, Lyonpo highlighted that the National Space Challenge serves a broader purpose beyond competition, fostering curiosity, innovation and exploration. She emphasized its role in inspiring the next generation of scientists, engineers and leaders to aspire for greater accomplishments.
The National Space Challenge was initiated last year focusing on developing satellite prototypes involving college students.
Additional pictures online at http://tinyurl.com/3rc94e4f