In what could be an epic turnaround for team AACT the first day of the NASA moonbuggy race began with anxious excitement and mechanical failure, and turned into extraordinary teamwork and resolute determination as we look ahead to tomorrow's second running of the race.
Things started off well with the new buggy weighing in at under 80 pounds and a set up time under 5 seconds. The riders looked fast and determined at the start line but the hopes of the team were halted when an obstacle on the course proved too much for the ultralight frame as it bent about a third of the way through the course.
Teamwork, improvisation, and hours in the NASA support "pit" have brought the moonbuggy back to life, stronger than ever. Tomorrow's race has the potential to be an amazing comeback for a team that looked to be on the ropes. As one of the faculty advisors put it, "this has provided the team with a teachable moment and it has passed the test with flying colors."
Reinforcements! Above image.
The only dark cloud on the horizon is the 80% chance of thunderstorms forecast for tomorrow. Rain is no problem for the event but lightning will cause the race to be scrubbed and without a successful second run team AACT will be left to dream of what could have been and work even harder for next year's event.
Below...ready to go for tomorrow's race!
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