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 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.
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.
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.
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!
Paper Spinners
Paper spinners are always winners in our house. Try making big ones, little ones and even tiny ones to invesigate which fall the fastest.
Mini Baking Soda Powered Bottle Rocket
My mini baking soda powered bottle rocket is a brilliant garden science project. Watch out, as it shoots up with a bang!
The secret is to make sure the cork fits tightly!
Do you have any more ideas for flying experiments for us?
If you enjoyed these activities, don’t forget to check out my gravity science experiments and activity ideas for learning about forces too!
Science Concepts
Gravity
Air resistance
Flight
Newton’s Laws of Motion
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Last Updated on March 7, 2025 by Emma Vanstone
Some great ideas! I think my kids will love these and I reckon my boy will love the bottle rocket.