On Jan. 5, nearly 4,000 high school FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) robotics teams, including Becker High School FRC 4607, C.I.S., tuned in for the unveiling of the 2019 Robotics Challenge: DESTINATION: DEEP SPACE, presented by the Boeing Company.

 

For the sixth year, Becker Robotics C.I.S. hosted the event at the high school. With 33 teams attending, theirs’ was the second largest kickoff event in Minnesota.

The event began with a live broadcast from New Hampshire, allowing teams across the world to learn about this season’s game and receive the game manual at the same time. In a twist, this was the first year the game field plans weren’t released prior to the kickoff. Instead, the field was presented in virtual reality; Becker provided Oculus devices for participants to use for viewing.

 

The performing arts center was packed with excited students, coaches and volunteers, all eager to learn about the new season’s challenge. After the game announcement, teams discussed and debriefed the new challenge during a large group lunch, after which there were breakout sessions.

 

The teams also received their kit of parts during the kickoff event.

 

The objective of this year’s game, DESTINATION: DEEP SPACE, is to load cargo pods into rockets to lift off. In the beginning seconds, a sandstorm is released upon both alliances, obstructing the view of the playing field. In order to lift off, the teams must cover each cargo container with a hatch panel.

 

Toward the end of the game, players may attempt to climb onto a platform with three different levels. The alliance with the most points at the end wins the match.

 

The kickoff event concluded with a large group question and answer session about strategy and breakdown led by Becker 4607 alumni Ryan Swanson.

 

Members of Becker Robotics C.I.S. meet as a large group every Wednesday and again separately throughout the week with their individual departments. Tasks have been assigned and deadlines made to keep themselves on track and organized for the season.

 

With kickoff marking the beginning of the design and build season, all the departments are now working to prep for upcoming events. The team’s first competition is in Duluth March 7 and 8.

 

This year’s team plans to build on the success of last year. Becker Robotics took home five blue banners and six awards, including the Dunwoody College of Technology Engineering Award at State and the Chairman’s Award at regionals for the third consecutive year.

 

FIRST Robotics Competition is an annual competition that challenges high school students – working alongside professional mentors – to construct a robot and compete in tournaments that measure the effectiveness of each robot, the power of teamwork and collaboration, and each team’s display of Gracious Professionalism®. Through their participation, students experience science, engineering, technology and innovation, and build well-rounded life capabilities such as self-confidence, communication, and leadership.