Out of this World at UK Space Design Competition
A group of eight talented Year 12 students enjoyed a stellar day representing Colfe’s at the UK Space Design Competition at Imperial College, diving headfirst into the challenge of designing a mining community lunar settlement.
The UK Space Design Competition is a multidisciplinary space-themed competition, challenging students from schools across the UK with designing a future crewed space settlement within the solar system.
The Colfe’s team project was not just any moon settlement. They meticulously detailed every aspect of their design, from the exact dimensions of the structures to the roles of individuals working in the settlement. They also did a full cost analysis along with construction deadlines for the space settlement designed in 2045.
The students drew inspiration from the natural world, specifically the intricate patterns of butterfly wings, to enhance the efficiency of solar panel electricity generation. Although the team just missed out on a place in the national finals, their futuristic vision captured the imagination of and garnered special attention from the judges.
Matt Hilmer, Teacher of Physics, took the group to the competition and said: “I am extremely proud of this focussed and talented group. Although we didn’t advance to the national finals, the progress our team has made since last year’s competition is nothing short of remarkable. Their presentation skills, technical knowledge, and creative thinking have dramatically improved, placing them in strong contention for the winning title going forward. The judges commended our team for their forward-thinking design and innovative use of bioengineered insights. Well done to all.”
