Aerodynamics & Hydrodynamics Project Ideas

How Does a Hovercraft Work?
Have you ever ridden on a hovercraft? It is like gliding on a cushion of air! In this science project, you will make your own mini hovercraft using a CD or DVD and a balloon and investigate how the amount of air in the balloon affects how long the hovercraft hovers. Read more

The Swimming Secrets of Duck Feet
Do you wish that you had duck feet? Aside from being a fun Dr. Seuss story, there is a lot you can learn about hydrodynamics by looking at the feet of birds. How are the feet of birds that swim unique? Find out in this experiment. Read more

How Far Will It Fly? Build & Test Paper Planes with Different Drag
Just one sheet of paper can lead to a whole lot of fun. How? Paper planes! All you have to know is how to fold and you can have a simple plane in a matter of minutes! But what design should you use to build the best plane? In this aerodynamics science project, you will change the basic design of a paper plane and see how this affects its flight. Specifically, you will increase how much drag the plane experiences and see if this changes how far… Read more

Let's Go Fly a Kite!
Kites have been a source of entertainment for centuries of kids from cultures around the world. In this experiment you will have a chance to build your very own kite, a simple sled kite. Then you will use it to investigate how kites fly. Will you find out the best way to fly your kite? Read more

Whirl-y-bird vs. Whale-y-bird
What do whale fins, shark skin, mackerel tails, and golf balls all have in common? Explore the science of hydrodynamics and biomimicry with this fun experiment. Read more