KSC-06pd0460

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. - During the 2006 FIRST Robotics Regional Competition held March 9-11 at the University of Central Florida in Orlando, Kennedy Space Center Director Jim Kennedy (left) greets members of the "Pink Team," whose robot is named Roccobot and is co-sponsored by NASA KSC. At least four teams in the competition were sponsored by KSC, NASA and contractors. The FIRST Robotics Competition challenges teams of young people and their mentors to solve a common problem in a six-week timeframe using a standard "kit of parts" and a common set of rules. Teams build robots from the parts and enter them in a series of competitions. FIRST, which is based on "For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology," redefines winning for these students. Teams are rewarded for excellence in design, demonstrated team spirit, gracious professionalism and maturity, and ability to overcome obstacles. Scoring the most points is a secondary goal. Winning means building partnerships that last. NASA and the University of Central Florida are co-sponsors of the regional event, which this year included more than 50 teams. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett