Mars Robotics Association

Mars Robotics Association is a nonprofit organization with student-led robotics teams that design, build, and program robots to compete with other FIRST teams. Participants design and build LEGO-based robots capable of solving a series of themed challenges, create a team name, design a logo, and craft custom team shirts. They also tackle a research project inspired by the year’s theme and design, build, and program a robot to complete specific tasks on a competition field, including events where teams are randomly paired with other teams to form alliances at each FIRST Tech Challenge event.

• Ages: 9–18 years old

Mars Robotics Association is part of an organization called FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) and participates in FIRST LEGO League for students in 4th through 8th grade and FIRST Tech Challenge for students in 7th–12th grade. Its stated goal is to help children of all ages explore the world of robotics. Students also help to spread STEAM throughout the community through various outreach events and work on design, marketing, and outreach projects. Team 13474 MARS Curiosity has received several FIRST Tech Challenge awards, including the Lancaster Area Qualifier Innovate Award, the Seneca Valley Qualifier Inspire Award, the Southwestern Pennsylvania Qualifier Inspire 3rd place, and the Pennsylvania FTC Championship Innovate winner.

Last updated July 10, 2026.