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Visit to Bestwood Country Park 19^th September, 2025

Water Rockets and Polystyrene Aeroplanes: A Day of Experimentation

The science group met at Bestwood Country Park for a hands-on exploration of flight and propulsion. A focus of the meeting was launching water rockets, an activity that proved both challenging and entertaining. Despite our enthusiasm and numerous attempts to launch even with the expertise of John Tedstone and John Berril we encountered a staggering 95% failure rate with water rocket launches.

They either failed to lift off or experienced technical difficulties, usually due to insufficient air pressure, this providing plenty of opportunities for laughter among the spectators.

In contrast, the session on polystyrene aeroplane flying was notably more successful. Members enjoyed constructing and testing their lightweight planes.

 Some of them soared impressively across the open spaces of the park, others experienced an early descent.

 Our efforts highlighted the unpredictable nature of scientific experimentation.  Overall, it was a memorable day, combining fun, frustration, and the thrill of discovery in a rural outdoor setting.

Our next meeting is on Friday 17^th October at JGC 10am to 11.45am

We have a presentation from group member Dr Jolanta Adamczewska who spent many years specialising in the field of lubricants.

Most of us know they are substances designed to reduce friction between surfaces in mutual contact, which ultimately minimises heat generation and wear.

We will learn that they have many other uses and there are different types both natural and synthetic.

Following the break we have an activity currently in development.

David Rose