To the Moon and Back

The activity climaxes into an exciting lift off in 3-4 phases:

1. Intro Brief: Kick off with a powerful video about the 1960s Space Race and a presentation to help your team incorporate that knowledge into their own project.
2. Astronauts Bootcamp (optional): Experience the rigorous physical and mental preparation required for moon landings. Participate in team tests designed to maximize fun and camaraderie.
3. Rocket Science: Teams embark on the “impossible” task of building a rocket, manning it with an astronaut, and ensuring its safe return to Earth. Split into three departments (Engineering, Life Support, Navigation), teams must operate independently yet communicate and cooperate effectively. After a 60-minute construction period, all teams assemble their rockets for launch.
4. T-minus 30 Seconds: Move outside for the final countdown. The Control Center will guide your rocket to the launch pad and prepare for ignition. If everything goes well, witness an impressive lift off and reentry, marking your team’s contribution to space exploration history!

• Strategic Alignment: Teams synchronize priorities and direction to reach a shared mission.
• Cross-Team Coordination: Strengthens collaboration, handoffs, and role interdependence.
• Execution Discipline: Reinforces planning, sequencing, and consistent follow-through.
• Decision Making: Improves speed and quality of choices under pressure.
• Ownership Mindset: Builds responsibility for outcomes instead of escalation.