Emirates Aviation University and Boeing Propel Aeronautical Dreams with Water Rocket Competition
Emirates Aviation University, in collaboration with Boeing, hosted its seventh annual Water Rocket Competition, showcasing the talents of 202 students from 24 schools across the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
The event, designed for students in grades 11 and 12, aims to ignite passion for aeronautical careers and foster creativity in the field of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
Participants were challenged to build water rockets using materials readily available to them. The primary objective was to launch the rockets at a 45-degree angle, relying solely on water and air pressure for propulsion.
In addition to the technical aspects of rocket design, students were encouraged to incorporate creative nose cones and fins for enhanced impact protection.
Professor Ahmad Al Ali, Vice Chancellor of Emirates Aviation University, expressed the institution’s commitment to innovation and nurturing creativity in young minds.
He stated, “Our annual Water Rocket Competition is not just exciting for the student community; it’s also an opportunity to bring in the best and brightest young minds of the country together, challenge them, and encourage them to think about STEM careers.”
The competition, which lasted two hours, allowed teams to have two attempts to launch their water rockets. Beyond the technical aspects, students were also educated on the importance of reducing, reusing, and recycling materials, promoting sustainability in their projects.
Kuljit Ghata-Aura, Boeing President in the Middle East, Türkiye, Africa, and Central Asia, expressed Boeing’s excitement in partnering with Emirates Aviation University to inspire a new generation of aerospace scientists.
Ghata-Aura highlighted the UAE’s growing prominence in space exploration, including launching the Arab world’s first uncrewed mission to Mars.
Following the thrilling water rocket launches, the judging panel, consisting of representatives from Emirates Aviation University and Boeing, announced the winning school.
Eagle 1 from Islamiya English School, Abu Dhabi, emerged victorious by launching their rocket an impressive distance of 99 meters.
Eagle 2 from the same school secured the first runner-up position with 93 meters, while OOW – Volts from Our Own High School, Dubai, claimed the second runner-up position with a distance of 92 meters.
The annual Water Rocket Competition continues to inspire young aeronautical enthusiasts by combining creativity with the principles of rocketry and flight.
The event serves as a platform for students to showcase their technical skills, collaborate with peers, and learn from industry professionals, creating a pathway for potential careers in the aerospace industry.
