Build. Fly. Discover.
Welcome to TerraNova Engineering Lab.
Our Mission: From Earth to Orbit
Our mission is to take the fundamental forces that shape our world and show how those same principles can be used to reach for the stars. At TerraNova Engineering Lab, we don’t just teach STEM—we engineer it. Our immersive programs blend hands-on engineering, flight simulation, and space science into unforgettable missions for curious minds. We showcase our "Earth to Orbit" journey because it provides a perfect overview of everything we do: connecting the ground beneath our feet to the cosmos above.
Here’s a Breakdown of What We Do:
1. We Bridge Theory and Practice
We take abstract concepts from physics and Earth science and make them tangible. Students don't just learn about Bernoulli's principle; they design, build, and fly a glider that uses it. They don't just read about Newton's laws; they build a water-powered rocket that demonstrates them.
2. Our Core Workshop: The "Earth to Orbit" Journey
Our flagship 4-week program is a carefully designed adventure that serves as a perfect introduction to our philosophy. Each week, students tackle a new challenge:
- Week 1: Lift & Atmosphere: Build gliders and balloon rockets to master the principles of flight.
- Week 2: Energy & Earth Forces: Engineer earthquake-resistant towers to understand structural integrity and seismic energy.
- Week 3: Water & Propulsion: Construct hydraulic arms and water rockets to explore fluid dynamics and thrust.
- Week 4: Gravity & Orbit & Space: Students build orbital simulators and marble roller coasters to explore gravity wells and orbital mechanics. We connect the physics of the Big Bang, cosmic expansion, and planetary motion to hands-on models of how the universe moves and evolves
- Optional Track: Abiogenesis and the origin of life, a deep-dive into the latest scientific findings.
3. We Step into the Virtual Cockpit
For students passionate about aviation, we offer separate, dedicated packages that use state-of-the-art simulation. This is where students learn to Pilot the past. Engineer the future.
Wings of History Lab
Our most popular option uses cutting-edge simulators like War Thunder as a dynamic, interactive tool. Students pilot historical aircraft, from WWI biplanes to early jets, to experience firsthand how engineering trade-offs—like speed versus maneuverability—and the laws of physics play out in real-time.
Private Pilot Pathway
This track uses professional-grade simulators like Microsoft Flight Simulator, along with accessible online platforms like GeoFS and DCS World, to teach the fundamentals of modern civilian flight, navigation, and aircraft systems.
4. We are *Zukunftsmacher* (Future-Makers)
This isn't a lecture. It’s a lab. Our small, home-based workshops provide a supportive space where teens can experiment, fail, redesign, and ultimately succeed. We end every program with a showcase where they present their final projects, building confidence alongside their creations. For those with a competitive spark, we also form teams for the Real World Design Challenge and The American Rocketry Challenge.
Ready to Take Flight?
The first class is on us! Experience our hands-on "Earth to Orbit" workshop with a no-obligation free trial.
Claim Your Free TrialIn short: At TerraNova, we build things that fly, move, and withstand incredible forces, all while learning the deep science of our planet and the universe.
Online and in-person options available. Let’s build the future—one lift-off at a time.
Services
Packages and Pricing
Engage in dynamic STEM learning through hands-on workshops and personalized tutoring for middle and high school students — available online or in person. Each package can be further tailored to the student following a consultation. Tailored Payment Plans are available.
Forging Aviators
These software programs are not used in the curriculum due to licensing restrictions. However, they are available for personal use, and your course will strengthen your ability to operate them — and eventually, even design similar systems. You’ll also experience comparable simulation environments through the licensed tools we use in our curriculum, including realistic flight dynamics and space modeling
Aerospace Engineering Competitions
Aerospace engineering competitions offer powerful opportunities to apply real-world STEM skills in creative, team-based challenges. Programs like TARC (The American Rocketry Challenge) invite students to design, build, and launch model rockets with precision and safety. Dream With Us, hosted by Blue Origin’s Club for the Future, encourages visionary thinking about space exploration and future habitats.
Frequently Asked Questions
Contact us
Have a question or want to book an appointment? Contact us today!
Zukunftsmacher - Future Makers
Pilot the past. Engineer the future.
Zukunftsmacher - Future Makers
Welcome to TerraNova Engineering Lab. We connect the ground beneath our feet to the cosmos above through hands-on, project-based learning.