Experiments you can make FLY

Here at Science Sparks, we love experiments you can make fly. We’ve got different types of rockets, paper spinners, parachutes and even a paper helicopter.

These simple and engaging science experiments are great for learning about forces. Gravity, friction and air resistance are all examples of forces you need to consider when making things fly!

Rockets are a great way to demonstrate Newton’s Laws of Motion as children can see forces in action.

Experiments you can make fly

Bottle Rocket

One of my most popular science experiments is our water-powered bottle rocket. This one takes a bit of setting up, but it can be used over and over again, so it is worth the initial effort. You can also buy a bottle rocket kit, making it a bit easier.

We decorated ours, but that’s completely optional.

Image of a child holding a bottle rocket

Image below taken from This Is Rocket Science

Squeezy Bottle Rocket

Learn about Newton’s Third Law with an easy squeezy rocket. The little rockets on top of the bottle are made from foam, but you can use folded paper sealed at the top to make it easier.

Squeezy rocket made from a plastic bottle - great for learning about forces — Squeezy Rocket – Image Taken from This IS Rocket Science

Film Canister Rockets

We love Growing a Jewelled Rose’s exploding chalk rockets or try our slightly less colourful film canister rockets.

Film canister rockets are fantastic as they can be used over and over again, are reliable and launch with an impressive “pop”. Just remember to stand well back.

film canister rocket with a lego man attached with an elastic band — Film Canister Rocket

Paper Helicopters

We found these awesome ( and simple to make ) helicopters in the fantastic new Easy Paper Projects book from Red Ted Art.

Paper Aeroplanes

Tinkerlab makes some brilliant paper aeroplanes. Try having a competition to see who can get their plane to fly the furthest. This is great for a bit of measuring practice too.

Straw Rockets

Our easy straw rockets are super simple to make and fly amazingly well. Red Ted Art also has some fun bee themed shooters made using the same technique.

Child blowing down a straw to make a paper rocket fly as a simple science activity

Paper and Straw Aeroplanes

Red Ted Art has some brilliant paper and straw aeroplanes that are easy to make. You could also try making a giant version!

Milk Jug Rocket

Milk jug rockets are great for younger children. You only need an empty, clean milk jug and a cardboard or paper cone. Children squeeze the milk carton and the cone shoots into the air!