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Systems Tool Kit & AFA's StellarXplorers Program
Ansys STK is a software tool that allows engineers and scientists to design and develop complex dynamic simulations of real-world problems, especially those relating to satellites, spacecraft, and aircraft. Through CAP's partnership with Ansys Government Initiatives, the makers of STK, cadets are invited to test-fly this state-of-the-art technology.
STK is a fantastic aerospace/STEM activity for cadets, students, and adults!
In association with STK, the Air & Space Forces Association (AFA) has an exciting and challenging space design national competition that involves the use of STK. StellarXplorers (STLX) is a dynamic program and competition available to ANY high school team from schools, youth organizations, JROTC, OR CAP! The program leads to a national finals competition held each spring.
STLX XI (2024-2025) competition is nearing the national finals held in Aurora, CO, 23-25 April 2025.
See past CAP team successes in historical section below.
Plan now for the next season of STLX - registration will be open April - October each year. Find out all details at www.stellarxplorers.org!
- CAP teams register at no cost!
- To find out more about how the STLX program can help CAP squadrons, click the STLX Info Page for CAP.
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For schools: Title I school fees are waived. School team registration is $200 for the first team; $100 for the second team; and all teams (up to three other teams) after that are free. Thus, five teams for $300!!
STK Resources:
Want to get started learning about STK? See info below!
How to Obtain a Free STK Software License: contact ae@capnhq.gov
The following resources are old but can still be used.
STK Downloading Instructions - 2018 Update
STK Curriculum
STK PowerPoint - Orbital Mechanics
Lesson plans, slides, activity scenarios, etc. (6.6 mb Zip file)
Past CAP teams in the national STLX finals:
STLX XI (2025) See CAP.NEWS article, CO and OR CAP Teams Seek STLX STEM Title
STLX X (2024) Complete
STLX IX (2023) New Jersey's Thomas B..McGuire Composite Squadron reached the StellarXplorers national finals. See CAP.NEWS article.
STLX VIII (2022) Complete
STLX VII (2021) OR Wing, the Aurora Composite Squadron won the national championship. See CAP.NEWS article.
STLX VI (2020) OR Wing, the Aurora Composite Squadron placed 2nd nationally! See CAP.NEWS article.
STLX V (2019) MN Wing, the Anoka Composite Squadron See CAP.NEWS article.
STLX IV (2018) OR Wing, the Aurora Composite Squadron. See CAP.NEWS article.
STLX III (2017) OR Wing, the Aurora Composite Squadron. See CAP.NEWS article.
