Smithsonian Jet-Works

• Grades: 3–8
• Number of Students: 1–2 students per kit; pairs are recommended
• Number of Lessons: N/A — no fixed lesson count specified
• Hours of Content: Approximately 2–4 hours, estimated for assembly, testing, and discussion
  

Highlights:

Take flight into the world of aviation engineering with the Smithsonian Jet-Works Kit, an immersive STEM experience that lets kids build a functioning model jet engine from the inside out. Step-by-step illustrated instructions guide young engineers through assembling turbine fans, gearing mechanisms and a motorized drive system that demonstrates how real jet engines produce thrust.

Once complete, flip the switch to activate spinning turbine blades and glowing light effects that simulate the internal ignition and airflow of a real engine. The transparent casing allows full visibility so kids can study movement, rotation speed and airflow patterns while learning what makes airplanes fly.

Perfect for classrooms, homeschool STEM lessons, science fairs or weekend building fun, Smithsonian Jet-Works encourages hands-on experimentation and mechanical understanding. The finished model becomes a dynamic display piece that sparks curiosity, conversation and future engineering ambitions.

What’s Included:

• Jet-engine model components, including turbine fans, blades, and gears
• Transparent engine housing and frame parts
• Motorized drive system with switches and controls
• Battery pack and electrical components
• Assembly screws and hardware
• Color educational poster with instructions and explanations of jet-engine operation

The kit contains approximately 83 pieces for building the working model.

Technology Requirements/Specifications:

• Dimensions: 38.1 x 7.6 x 29.8 cm (15 x 3 x 11.8 in)
• Weight: 0.88 kg (1.95 lb)

Special Notes and Considerations:

Requires 4 (1.5V) AA Batteries and a screwdriver (Not included).

⚠WARNING: 

CHOKING HAZARD - Small parts. Not for children under 3 years.