FAQ
How many children can be on a team? Can there be just one? Can there be more than six?
How many children can be on a team?
Teams may include up to 4 children. We’ve found that groups of 3–4 students work best for collaboration and building their rover.
Can there be just one?
Yes. While we do not recommend that children participate alone, it is permitted. In fact, we’ve had single-student teams successfully compete—and even win their category.
Can there be more than six?
No. Teams should not exceed 4 members. Larger groups can make it difficult for all students to actively participate, so we limit team size to ensure a positive experience for everyone.
What if one member of the team is ill or has a conflict on the day of the event; can the team still come?
Yes.
Does the cost sheet need to include everything they used…even if it was a found object?
Found objects should be listed at a cost of $0.
Is a trifold display or diorama required?
No, however, it is greatly encouraged. A trifold may be used to enhance the presentation by providing information such as the purpose and goals, important facts about the rover, and images.
Are skits required? Are costumes a required part of the skit?
Skits are a required part of the judging process and will be evaluated on clarity, preparation, and coherence of presentation. Costumes are allowed BUT not required or considered as part of the evaluation process.
Are batteries allowed?
Only for radio controlled models that are entered in the RC model category.
You can now purchase actual robot CPU’s for less than $25. Can we use them?
No.
What if we can’t find any of the specific recommended starting RC cars? What do we do?
Anything in the 1:15 to1:20 size range that is under $25 is acceptable.
Are there any forms that need to be signed by a student’s parent or guardian?
The UH STEM Center has a media release form that needs a parent signature. Parents are NOT required to complete the media release form, but it is preferred.
What do judges actually do?
Judges carefully review and score each team’s model and skit using a detailed scoring rubric. Their role is to evaluate creativity, accuracy, teamwork, presentation, and how well the rover design meets the challenge requirements.
Each judge spends about 15 minutes per model and typically evaluates 4–6 models during the event.
Does judging require prior knowledge of the Mars Rover program or just a keen eye on details to the prescribed rules?
Judges do not need prior knowledge of the Mars Rover program, but do need to attend the judge training and have an eye for detail.
I want to help, but I am not a STEM/robotics person. Can I still volunteer as a judge?
Absolutely!
Do I need to be a student or affiliated with U of H to be a volunteer?
No — the whole community is invited to volunteer.
Do we need to pay for admission to Space Center Houston?
Each participant will be allowed one adult chaperone. All other guests must purchase an admission. Current general admission prices range approximately $24.95–$39.95 for kids (ages 4–11), $29.95–$44.95 for adults (ages 12+), and free for children ages 3 and under.
Where should we park?
Parking is available on‑site at Space Center Houston. The official parking lot costs $10 per vehicle, and payment can be made by scanning QR codes posted around the lot or at the entrance. Members park for free. There is also ample parking for buses and oversized vehicles.