Hosting Organization: Piscataway Public Library
County: Middlesex
With support from an NJ STEM Pathways grant, students and community members had the opportunity to dive into the science of flight through an engaging parachute engineering activity.
Grant funds were used to purchase several Pitsco Education “Parachutes – Getting Started” kits, which included materials for participants to build their own parachutes and construct a ripcord parachute drop. Attendees tested their designs by launching them from the ceiling and were excited to take their parachutes home to continue experimenting.
The station also featured informative displays and handouts explaining the physics behind parachute flight, as well as the history of parachute development and manufacturing—with a special focus on New Jersey’s own Switlik Parachute Company. Founded in 1918, Switlik played a pivotal role during World War II, producing thousands of parachutes for the military and making a lasting impact on the aviation industry.
This hands-on activity not only introduced participants to real-world STEM concepts but also celebrated local innovation and history in a fun, interactive environment.