“SAE

GBPIET
PRESENTS”
WATER
ROCKET
3.0
CHALLENGE
RULE BOOK 2K26
EVENT DESCRIPTION
This event challenges participants to design and build a water rocket based on the theme
“Sustainable Flight Design.” The objective is to achieve efficient flight performance while
incorporating eco-friendly materials, reusable design, and safe recovery mechanisms.

THE TEAMS
A team must consist of a minimum of 2 members and a maximum of 3 members. Team
members are not required to be from the same branch.

FIELD DIMENSION
The Field area of the water rocket tournament would be 100X100 meters (approx.). A
fixed spot for the launching pad will be marked on the competition field. White lines
mark the penalty area.

THE ROCKET
The team must design their own water rocket and launch pads safely. Commercial water rocket kits
and launch pads will not be allowed. The teams should give thought to their designs and be aware
that the inspection team will inspect and assess rockets for compliance with the safety
requirements ontheday of the competition.

a.) The weight of an empty rocket with an empty fuel tank must not exceed 0.5kg
with a tolerance of 5%.
b.) The maximum allowed total height (including the nose) of the rocket is 60cm with
a tolerance of 5%.
c.) The rocket shall be made of low-density materials such as paper, plastic,duct
tape, and glue.
d.) Use of metal, ceramics, and other high-density materials is prohibited.
e.) It must have stabilizing fins in the rear of sufficient size.
f.) The stabilizing fins must be firmly attached to the rocket and must not have sharp
edges and tips. A handmade parachute can be used to slow down the rocket's
descent so it lands softly. While designing a rocket to achieve accuracy
in landing, the team should strive for safety by building the rocket “larger andlighter”
rather than “smaller and heavier”

STAINABLE DESIGN CRITERIA

To align with the theme “Sustainable Flight Design,” all participating teams must incorporate
environmentally responsible design practices in the construction and operation of their water
rockets. The following criteria must be considered:
  Use of Recyclable and Eco-Friendly Materials

Rockets should primarily be constructed using recyclable, reusable, or biodegradable materials such
as plastic bottles (PET), cardboard, paperboard, and eco-safe adhesives. The use of environmentally
harmful materials should be avoided as much as possible.

 Preference for Recycled Components

Teams are encouraged to maximize the use of recycled or waste materials (e.g., used bottles, scrap
cardboard, reused plastic components). This promotes sustainability and reduces material wastage.

 Restriction on Non-Recyclable and Hazardous Materials

The use of toxic, hazardous, or non-recyclable materials (such as metals, brittle plastics, or chemically
treated components) is discouraged and may lead to penalties if deemed unsafe or environmentally
harmful.

 Reusability of the Rocket

Rockets should be designed in such a way that they can be reused for multiple launches with minimal
repair. Durable construction and modular design (replaceable parts) are encouraged to reduce waste
generation.

 Recovery and Parachute System

Teams are strongly recommended to incorporate a recovery mechanism such as a parachute or

controlled descent system. This ensures safe landing, minimizes damage to the rocket, and reduces
environmental impact by preventing debris scattering.

 Minimal Environmental Impact

The overall design should ensure that the rocket does not cause environmental harm during launch
or landing. All components should be retrievable, and no harmful debris should be left on the field.

IDENTIFICATION REQUIREMENT
 Each team must clearly display their Team Name and Team Number on the rocket.
 The markings should be visible, legible, and securely attached throughout the
competition.
 The Team Number will be allotted and communicated to all teams one day prior to
the event.
 Failure to properly label the rocket may result in penalty or disqualification at the
discretion of the judges
ROCKET NOSE SHAPE
While a sharper nose improves aerodynamics and accuracy, for safety the nose
must be somewhat rounded and made of a soft, flexible material. The nose must
not form a sharp, hard point. It should not injure anyone.

FUEL TANK
Fuel Tank The water fuel tank must be a plastic soda bottle, not a water bottle, witha maximum size of
2 Liters. The bottle should be strong, lightweight, and designed to be pressurized. The soda bottle
must be pristine, with no cracks, dents, crinkles, or scratches. In short, it must have no defects that
could compromise the bottle's strength and lead to the bottle burst during pressurization and launch.

FUEL
The rocket fuel must be water, driven by pressurized air to produce thrust. Water
and air are non-toxic non-combustible, and readily available. Air pressuremust not
exceed 60 psi.

LAUNCHPAD
The Launchpad must be of sufficiently sturdy construction to ensure a repeatable,
predictable launch direction. Use of a launch guide pole is required tohelp launch the
rocket in the intended direction.

WINNING THE CHALLENGE

a.) Firstly, there will be a technical Inspection of a rocket after qualifying the
technical inspection then the rocket will be allowed for launching, the
maximum time allotted (Game time) for a team to set up and launch the rocket is
2 mins. Failing to do so will result in the disqualification of the team.
b.) Each team will get three chances to launch the rocket and achieve the
maximum Air Time.

SCORING CRITERIA
a.) Airtime Performance: 30 points
b.) Rocket Design (Engineering & Aerodynamics): 20 points
c.) Sustainability (Materials, Reuse, Eco-Design): 25 points
d.) Parachute / Recovery System: 10 points
e.) Launch Stability & Control: 10 points
f.) Team Explanation / Innovation: 5 points
AWARDS

In addition to the overall winner, the following special awards will be presented to recognize
excellence in specific categories:

1st Position Best Engineered Rocket

Awarded to the team demonstrating superior engineering design, structural stability, and
aerodynamic efficiency.

2nd Position Best Innovative Design

Awarded to the team showcasing creativity, unique concepts, and innovative approaches in
rocket design and functionality.

3rd Position Most Accurate Rocket

Awarded to the team whose rocket lands closest to the designated target area, demonstrating
precision and control.

PRICE AND CERTIFICATE

1. All participants will receive E-certificates.

2. The top 3 positions will receive Achievement & Rank Certificates.

3. Additionally, an anomalous gift will be provided to each of the top 3 ranker