Ciao Lab, led by Dr. Ningshi Yao, successfully launched the Airborne Robotics Cup (ARCup) in Gaithersburg, Md on August 17, 2025.
ARCup is a hands-on robotics and AI competition featuring miniature robotic blimps designed and piloted by middle and high school students. It takes the form of a 3D aerial “soccer” match, in which teams fly fleets of soft, lightweight robotic blimps to capture and score game balls through hoops. The platform emphasizes safety, affordability, and accessibility: each kit costs under $200 and many parts can be built from everyday materials such as trash bags and foam board.
The event was co-organized by Ciao Lab in partnership with two US-based nonprofit organizations, the Capital Youth Outreach Club and the Zhejiang University Alumni Association, Greater Washington, D.C. Chapter. ARCup 2025 brought together more than 50 students from six states, supported by over 150 parents, educators, and community leaders. The all-day competition ran from noon until nearly 11 p.m. and concluded with a thrilling finale.
Public officials and academic leaders attended to recognize student achievements and the event’s educational mission, including Maryland Secretary of State Susan C. Lee, Maryland State Senator Dr. Clarence Lam, and Dr. Alex Sprintson, Chair of the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at George Mason University.
While ARCup crowned winners, organizers emphasized that the competition is about more than trophies. “ARCup isn’t just about medals,” Yao said. “It’s about engineering thinking, resilience, leadership, and collaboration. And learning how to overcome setbacks is just as important as learning how to win.”
Looking ahead, ARCup will return next year, with plans to expand participation among schools, mentors, and community partners.
About ARCup
The Airborne Robotics Cup (ARCup) is a STEM education initiative designed to make robotics and AI approachable for middle and high school students through project-based learning. ARCup emphasizes low cost, safety, and hands-on creativity via miniature robotic blimps in a structured competitive format. To learn more about ARCup, you can visit the official website arcup.ai.
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