Lego Robotics Competition at JPL, Live on NASA TV and Ustream
WHAT: Sixteen student teams from nine local elementary, middle and high schools will pit their software-enabled, battery-powered LEGOO robots against the clock in the 5th Annual Southern California Robotics Competition at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena, Calif., on Tuesday, March 15.
The competition will be broadcast live from 12:15 to 3:15 p.m. PST (3:15 to 6:15 p.m. EST), on NASA TV and via Ustream at http://www.ustream.tv/nasajpl2 .
In a challenge that simulates planetary exploration, the tabletop-sized robots must perform different tasks within two minutes. They include placing sensors in volcanoes, deploying habitats and rescuing a stranded “moon buggy,” or small robot. This robotic competition aims to engage students in math, science, technology and engineering. Each team has four students. The contest will be divided into two sections: one for elementary-school teams, and the other for middle- and high-school teams.
WHO: More than 64 student competitors from throughout Southern California (list of schools on second page). Between the competition rounds and the awards ceremony, NASA/JPL robotics engineer Paulo Younse will address the students and discuss careers in robotics, engineering and science.
WHEN: Tuesday, March 15, 12:15 to 2:15 p.m. The awards ceremony will be 2:45 to 3:15 p.m.
WHERE: JPL’s von Karman Auditorium. JPL is located off the Oak Grove Drive exit of the 210 (Foothill) Freeway. Visitor parking is to the left (west) of the JPL main guard gate, across the street from the JPL Visitor Center.
CONTACT: Media must RSVP in advance at 818-354-5011. Valid media credentials are required. Non-U.S. citizens must also bring passports.
Participating Teams
Charles T. Kranz Intermediate School, El Monte
Lake View Elementary School, Huntington Beach
Johnson STEM Magnet School, San Diego
Mesa Union School, Somis
North Ridge Magnet School, Moreno Valley
Roosevelt Middle School, Glendale
Sycamore Hills Elementary School, Fontana
Village Academy High School, Pomona
Vintage Math Science Technology Magnet School, North Hills
