Turn Model Rocketry Into a Hands-On STEM Investigation
The Orbitron™ STEM Kit gives educators an engaging way to move science concepts out of the textbook and into a real model rocket flight. Built around a beginner-friendly rocket and two launches, the experience encourages students to observe, experiment, collect data, make modifications, and see how their decisions affect real-world performance.
The kit is well suited for classroom demonstrations, STEM clubs, homeschool programs, camps, and youth organizations looking for an activity that combines engineering, physics, experimentation, and the excitement of a live rocket launch.
A Complete Two-Launch STEM Experience
Each Orbitron™ STEM Kit includes one Orbitron™ Model Rocket Kit, two D12-7 engines, one Porta-Pad® II Launch Pad, and one Electron Beam® Launch Controller. With enough supplies for two launches, educators can use the first flight to introduce experimentation and data collection, then give participants an opportunity to apply what they learned during a second launch.
The Orbitron™ itself is designed at the beginner skill level, making it an approachable introduction to model rocketry while still delivering impressive performance. On the included D12-7 engines, it can reach altitudes up to 950 feet before returning under an 18-inch parachute recovery system.
Take on the Leafy Launch Mission
Scan the QR code included in the box to access the downloadable Orbitron™ STEM Kit Activity Booklet, which guides participants through the Mars-themed "Leafy Launch" mission. Students are challenged to help prepare an imagined colony on Mars by determining how to safely and efficiently deliver a plant sapling payload using the Orbitron™ and the knowledge they develop throughout the activity.
The mission gives students a reason to investigate rather than simply follow instructions. As they progress, they explore gravity, drag, center of gravity, rocket stability, recovery systems, and descent time, then use their observations to make decisions about the final payload flight. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
Experiment, Modify, Measure, and Improve
The activity booklet encourages students to approach rocketry like scientists and engineers. They perform a rocket stability test, experiment with parachute modifications, measure descent time, record results, and compare different configurations to determine which approach best supports the mission.
The Orbitron™ transparent payload compartment brings another layer of experimentation to the experience. For the final mission, participants prepare a plant sapling payload, place it inside the rocket, and test whether their chosen recovery configuration can deliver it quickly and safely. The result is a memorable STEM challenge built around testing ideas, interpreting results, and improving a solution.
Make STEM Concepts Something Students Can See in Action
Concepts like drag, gravity, stability, and recovery become easier to understand when students can watch them affect an actual rocket. The Orbitron™ STEM Kit gives educators a powerful way to connect science and engineering principles with an experience students can observe, measure, discuss, and remember.
After the included flights are complete, the reusable launch equipment and Orbitron™ rocket make it easy to continue the learning experience with additional compatible C11-3, C11-5, D12-5, or D12-7 engines. Whether used as a guided STEM lesson, enrichment activity, club project, or camp challenge, the Orbitron™ STEM Kit gives educators an exciting platform for continued exploration.
