NM MESA Competition 2026 FAQ

MESA Competition 2026 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Updated as of 11/6/2025

This document serves as an official addendum to the 2026 MESA Competition Handbook.  All clarifications and statements are considered as official rulings for competition. Addition questions/clarifications may be submitted to anita@nmmesa.org.

PREPARED DESIGN:

Q:What UN Goal is MESA Day targeting?

A: As a correction to our Handbook, we are targeting UN Goal #4, Improving Education.  However it is encouraged to explore other goals as well as our competitions do overlap and target many areas. (11/6/25)

PREPARED DESIGN:

Q:Can you explain in more detail what can count as the electrical requirement?

A: See below for charts for Electrical Component Guidelines (Circuit Based Builds), Acceptable Types of Electrical Systems, and some Mechanical Build Guidance (11/6/25)

Feature

Circuit-Based?

Why?

LED lights blinking in a coded pattern

✅ Yes

Includes code, wired circuit, controlled behavior

Fan or motor controlled by button

✅ Yes

Uses switch, wires, and motor in a complete circuit

Light sensor that turns on an LED

✅ Yes

Circuit has input, microcontroller, output

Decorative light with battery

❌ No

Pre-assembled, no wiring or control logic

Store-bought item that lights up

❌ No

Not a custom or student-wired circuit

Acceptable Types of Electrical Systems:

Option A: Coded Circuits

(Microcontroller-Based)

Option B: Simple Circuits

(No Coding Required)

Includes Arduino, micro:bit, or other controller
– Uses code to run behavior (blinking, sensing, motor control, etc.)
– Encouraged for advanced builds

– Uses switches, buttons, batteries, LEDs, motors, sensors
– Circuits must be designed and wired by students
– Must demonstrate purposeful interaction or function

Mechanical Build Guidance:

Feature

Mechanical?

Why?

Gear system that spins a model windmill

✅ Yes

Student-assembled system that shows energy transfer

Pulley system that lifts a flag or object

✅ Yes

Demonstrates mechanical motion using force and tension

Lever that triggers a movement

✅ Yes

Illustrates motion control and simple machines

Crank that moves an arm or object

✅ Yes

Shows conversion between rotary and linear motion

Linkages that simulate walking or movement

✅ Yes

Represents real-world mechanisms and design thinking

Pre-made toy with moving parts

❌ No

Not student-designed or modified

Store-bought motorized object (unmodified)

❌ No

Must be repurposed or altered to show student work

 

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