Editing FIRST Lego League Challenge

{{Short description|Robotics competition}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=September 2016}}
{{Infobox sports league
| title           = FIRST Lego League Challenge
| current_season  = SUBMERGED (2024-2025)
| last_season     = SUPERPOWERED (2022-2023)
| logo            = File:FLL Challenge Logo v2.svg
| pixels          = 300px
| caption         = 
| formerly        = 
| upcoming_season = 
| sport           = [[Robotics]]-related games
| founded         = 1998
| fame            = 
| motto           = "More Than Robots"
| teams           = 35,140 (2018-2019)
| countries       = International
| venue           = Houston, Texas<br>Detroit, Michigan
| champion        = 
| champ_season    = 
| most_champs     = 
| most successful club = 
| qualification   = State or National Competition in respective country/state.
| inaugural       = 
| folded          = 
| website         = {{URL|http://www.firstlegoleague.org/}}
| singles         = 
| ceo             = 
| president       = Lawrence Cohen
| related_comps   = [[FIRST Robotics Competition]]<br>[[FIRST Tech Challenge]]<br>[[FIRST Lego League Explore]]
| founder         = [[Dean Kamen]]
| footnotes       = 
}}
The '''''FIRST'' Lego League Challenge''' (formerly known as ''FIRST'' Lego League) is an international competition<ref name=about /> organized by ''[[For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology|FIRST]]'' for elementary and middle school students (ages 9–14 in the United States and Canada, 9-15 elsewhere).<ref name=about>{{Cite web|title=About FIRST LEGO League|url=https://www.firstlegoleague.org/about|website=www.firstlegoleague.org|access-date=2020-05-08|archive-date=19 May 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200519154427/https://www.firstlegoleague.org/about|url-status=live}}</ref>

Each year in August,<ref name=start>{{cite web |title=Start a Team |url=http://firstlegoleague.org/challenge/startateam |publisher=FIRST |access-date=19 June 2011 |archive-date=15 March 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150315073503/http://www.firstlegoleague.org/challenge/startateam |url-status=dead }}</ref> FIRST Lego League Challenge teams are introduced to a scientific and real-world challenge for teams to focus and research on.<ref name="FIRSTFLL">{{cite web|url=http://www.firstinspires.org/robotics/fll |title=What is FLL? |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160922024325/http://www.firstinspires.org/robotics/fll |archive-date=22 September 2016 |access-date=24 September 2016 |url-status=dead }}</ref> The robotics part of the competition involves designing and programming [[Lego Education#Spike Prime|Lego Education robots]]<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://fll-challenge.memphisfirstteams.org/2021/01/13/ev3-to-be-retired/|title=EV3 to be Retired &#124; First Lego League Challenge|access-date=11 December 2021|archive-date=11 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211211014350/https://fll-challenge.memphisfirstteams.org/2021/01/13/ev3-to-be-retired/|url-status=live}}</ref> to complete tasks. The students work out a solution to a problem related to the theme (changes every year) and then meet for regional, national and international tournaments to compete, share their knowledge, compare ideas, and display their robots.

The ''FIRST'' Lego League Challenge is a partnership between ''[[For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology|FIRST]]'' and the [[Lego Group]]. It is the third division of FIRST Lego League, following [[FIRST Lego League Discover]] for ages 4-6, and [[FIRST Lego League Explore]] for ages 6-10.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2015-05-20 |title=FIRST LEGO League |url=https://www.firstinspires.org/robotics/fll |access-date=2022-03-13 |website=FIRST |language=en |archive-date=13 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170813221222/https://www.firstinspires.org/robotics/fll |url-status=live }}</ref>

==Competition details==

At the beginning of the competition season, ''FIRST'' sends a set of  official competition materials to each registered team, consisting of a 'challenge mat', LEGO electronic and mechanical components, and instructions for building the items for the mat (collectively known as the Challenge Set, formerly the Field Setup Kit). The teams also receive a list of tasks, called 'missions', to complete involving each model on the mat (e.g. taking a loose piece from one model and placing it inside another). The ''FIRST'' LEGO League Challenge gives teams complete freedom on how to complete the missions, providing that they are completed by a programmed LEGO Education robot with no outside assistance. The robot has two and a half minutes to complete the missions; called the ''Robot Game''. Each team has a minimum build period of 8 weeks to analyze the challenge mat, design and build a LEGO Education robot, and program it to fulfill the given missions in any manner they see fit. The robot must be [[autonomous robot|autonomous]],<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.tntech.edu/pressreleases/students-use-robots-during-qmission-marsq-at-lego-league-tournament-/ |title=Students use robots during "Mission Mars" at LEGO League tournament |access-date=9 August 2011 |publisher=FIRST |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110927035739/http://www.tntech.edu/pressreleases/students-use-robots-during-qmission-marsq-at-lego-league-tournament-/ |archive-date=27 September 2011 }}</ref> and may contain only one LEGO Education programmable block and no more than four motors.

In addition to the live robot run, or ''Robot Game'', the competition has three additional judged sections with the purpose of providing teams with feedback on their achievement of the ''FIRST'' LEGO League Challenge learning objectives. The first judging session, ''Core Values'',<ref name=start/> is designed to determine how the team works together and uses the ''FIRST'' LEGO League Core Values in everything they do, which include inspiration, teamwork, [[Gracious professionalism|''Gracious Professionalism'']], and ''Coopertition''. In addition to discussing how their team exhibits these values, teams may also be asked to perform a teamwork activity, usually timed, to see how the team works together to solve a new problem. Secondly, in the ''Robot Design'', or ''technical'' judging,<ref name="start" /> the team demonstrates the mechanical design, programming, and strategy/innovation of their robot. The goal of this judging session is to see what the robot “should” do during the Robot Game. Thirdly, in the ''Project'',<ref name=start/> the students must give a 5-minute presentation on the research of a topic related to the current challenge. The required steps of the project as teams to first identify a problem that is related to the topic of that year's competition, then create an innovative solution to their identified problem by modifying something that already exists or creating something completely new (an "innovative solution"), and then they must share that solution with others, such as real-world professionals who have expertise in the annual challenge theme.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.firstinspires.org/sites/default/files/uploads/fll/first-lego-league-rubrics.pdf|title=FIRST LEGO League Judging Rubrics|access-date=August 7, 2017|archive-date=7 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170807114138/https://www.firstinspires.org/sites/default/files/uploads/fll/first-lego-league-rubrics.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref>

===Table performance===
[[File:First Lego League 2018 (39253072084).jpg|alt=|left|thumb|Team members set up their autonomous built for the 2017 [[Hydro Dynamics (FIRST)|Hydro Dynamics]] playing field.]]
When the official competition convenes, each team brings their robot to compete on an official challenge mat identical to their own.  Two team members are allowed at the board during a match; however, they can switch out with others in the team.  In the case of a serious problem, such as the entire robot breaking down, the entire team is allowed at the board for as long as the problem persists.  Members are not permitted to bring additional robots or any other items to the board during the competition.

The robot starts in an area marked as 'base', a white area in the corner or to one side of the table.  While at base, two team members are allowed to touch the robot and start programs.  If the team touches the robot outside of base (an 'interruption'), the referee will issue a penalty, resulting in the removal of a Precision Token. These are stationary LEGO models that increase the final score if they remain until the end, providing an incentive to not interrupt the robot.  The robot is not required to return to base; some teams have completed all their missions without returning to base during the time allowed to complete the missions.  In fact, in the 2008–09,<ref>{{cite web | url = http://archive.usfirst.org/uploadedFiles/Who/FIRST_History/2008%20Climate%20Connections%20Challenge.pdf | title = Climate Connections: Mission, Field Setup, Rules, and Project | access-date = 7 August 2011 | publisher = FIRST | url-status = dead | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20151208130537/http://archive.usfirst.org/uploadedFiles/Who/FIRST_History/2008%20Climate%20Connections%20Challenge.pdf | archive-date = 8 December 2015 | df = dmy-all }}</ref> 2009–10,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://archive.usfirst.org/uploadedFiles/Community/FLL/Challenges/2009/Smart%20Move%20Challenge%20-%20Missions,%20Game%20Q&A,%20Field%20Setup,%20Project.pdf |title=Smart Move: Missions, Game Q&A, Field Setup, Project |access-date=7 August 2011 |publisher=FIRST }}{{dead link|date=April 2017 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> 2011-13 and 2021 challenges, points were awarded if the robot was in one of two specified areas, not including base, at the end of the two and a half minute match.

===Parts and Robotic platforms===
[[Image:Lego Mindstorms.jpg|thumb|Participants build robots with kits such as these.]]
''FIRST'' LEGO League Challenge teams may use "any [[Lego|LEGO]]-made building parts in their original factory condition<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://firstinspiresst01.blob.core.windows.net/fll/2020/city-shaper-game-guide-pdf.pdf|title=City Shaper Game Guide|date=August 1, 2019|access-date=September 17, 2019|archive-date=31 December 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191231015012/https://firstinspiresst01.blob.core.windows.net/fll/2020/city-shaper-game-guide-pdf.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref>" to construct their robots. The robots are programmed using any language allowing autonomous movement. Many teams opt for a block-based programming environment such as the official EV3 software, the official NXT-G software (now outdated), or [[Robolab]]. All these are built around [[Labview]].

The robots used are [[Lego Education]] units. Until 2021, the platform of choice was the [[Lego Education#Mindstorms|Lego Mindstorm EV3]]. While the EV3 will still be permitted in FLL competitions, starting in August 2022, the Guided Mission will only be available for SPIKE Prime.

==Events==
Teams in different parts of the world have different times allotted to complete the construction of the robot due to the varying date of qualifying tournaments but must have a minimum of 8 weeks from "Global Challenge Release" (the date, usually in August, by which the details of the missions and research project become available to the public). They go on to compete in ''FIRST'' LEGO League Challenge tournaments, similar to the [[FIRST Robotics Competition|''FIRST'' Robotics Competition]] regionals. The initial levels of competition are managed by an Affiliate Partner Organization (commonly affiliated Universities), who are led by an Affiliate or Operational Partner Representative ("The Partner"). The Partner has complete control over all official tournaments in their region. Region boundaries are set by ''FIRST''. Some States represent an entire region, while others, like Central Florida, represent a mix of Counties within the State.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.centralfloridarobotics.org/about/mission/|title=Our Mission|website=Central Florida Robotics|language=en-US|access-date=2017-08-07|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170807112957/http://www.centralfloridarobotics.org/about/mission/|archive-date=7 August 2017|url-status=dead|df=dmy-all}}</ref> Most Partners have a two-tier system; teams first go to a "Qualifier", and if they meet certain criteria and perform well in all three judged areas, they can receive a bid to advance to the next level of competition, which is most often a Regional-Level event. Certain territories have 3-tiers and may also employ a State Championship.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.firstinspires.org/sites/default/files/uploads/resource_library/fll/hydro-dynamics/hydro-dynamics-coaches-handbook.pdf|title=FIRST LEGO League Coaches' Handbook|access-date=August 7, 2017|archive-date=7 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170807113914/https://www.firstinspires.org/sites/default/files/uploads/resource_library/fll/hydro-dynamics/hydro-dynamics-coaches-handbook.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref>

The largest single-day regional qualifying tournament is hosted by First State Robotics and First State ''FIRST'' LEGO League in [[Wilmington, Delaware]]. Taking place every January, this event holds [[FIRST Lego League Explore|''FIRST'' LEGO League Explore]], ''FIRST'' LEGO League Challenge, [[FIRST Tech Challenge|''FIRST'' Tech Challenge]], [[FIRST Robotics Competition|''FIRST'' Robotics Competition]], and robot sumo competitions under one roof at the University of Delaware's Bob Carpenter Center.  Teams from Eastern Pennsylvania, Southern New Jersey, Delaware, and Maryland (among other regions) attend this tournament to make it the largest single-day ''FIRST'' event in the world.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.fsrobotics.org/lego |title=First State FIRST LEGO League |access-date=22 November 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081231091605/http://www.fsrobotics.org/lego/ |archive-date=31 December 2008 |df=dmy-all }}</ref>

===''FIRST'' Championship ===
The only competition run by ''FIRST'' is the [[FIRST Championship|''FIRST'' Championship]]<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.usfirst.org/community/fll/content.aspx?id=766 |title=World Festival |access-date=15 April 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090413183016/http://www.usfirst.org/community/fll/content.aspx?id=766 |archive-date=13 April 2009 |df=dmy-all }}</ref> In 2007, 96 teams competed in the ''FIRST'' LEGO League World Festival in [[Atlanta, Georgia]] on April 27–30.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.firstlegoleague.org/sitemod/upload/Root/ALL/NanoQuestWorldFestivalTeamRoster5.pdf |title=NanoQuestWorldFestivalTeamRoster5.pdf |access-date=16 September 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070422003845/http://www.firstlegoleague.org/sitemod/upload/Root/ALL/NanoQuestWorldFestivalTeamRoster5.pdf |archive-date=22 April 2007 |url-status=dead |df=dmy }}</ref> The 2007–08 Power Puzzle ''FIRST'' LEGO League World Festival and the 2008–09 ''FIRST'' LEGO League World Festival on Climate Connections were held again in the [[Georgia Dome]] and [[Georgia World Congress Center]]. Starting with 2010–11, ''FIRST'' LEGO League World Festival is held at the [[Edward Jones Dome]] and [[America's Center]] in St. Louis. In 2016, ''FIRST'' announced that they were expanding the ''FIRST'' Championship to two back-to-back events. Through 2020, these events will be held first in [[Houston|Houston, Texas]] at the [[George R. Brown Convention Center]] and the following week in [[Detroit|Detroit, Michigan]] at the [[Cobo Center]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.firstchampionship.org/welcome#block-block-54|title=Welcome {{!}} FIRST Championship|website=www.firstchampionship.org|language=en|access-date=2017-08-07|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090412133845/http://www.usfirst.org/who/content.aspx?id=4190#block-block-54|archive-date=12 April 2009|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{Citation|last=Official FIRST|title=FIRST Championship - 2017 and beyond|date=2016-02-16|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D4prYrPy0nw|access-date=2017-08-07|archive-date=3 January 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180103212332/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D4prYrPy0nw|url-status=live}}</ref>

Additionally, top-performing teams from the highest level of regional/state competition may be nominated to participate in one of the [[FIRST Lego League Open Championships|Open Championships]] (also called "Invitationals"), which are organized by ''FIRST'' LEGO League Challenge Partners. [[Image:First Lego League 2005 Cambridge trophies.jpg|thumb|Trophies made of LEGO blocks for ''FIRST'' LEGO League 2005 regional winners.]]
With the exception of Local Awards (a special recognition designed by that region's Partner), the Rookie Award, which recognizes a team for whose this is their first year competing and displayed extraordinary achievements, the Judges Award, which recognizes a team that displays much achievement, but did not qualify for any typical award, and the Robot Performance Award, which recognizes the team with the single highest numeric robot performance score at that particular event, teams are only allowed to win one award at any particular event.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.usfirst.org/roboticsprograms/fll/content.aspx?id=770 |title=FLL Awards |access-date=3 October 2009 |archive-date=12 June 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100612222914/http://usfirst.org/roboticsprograms/fll/content.aspx?id=770 |url-status=live }}</ref>

=== Global Innovation Award ===

Officially registered teams can also be nominated by their region for the Global Innovation Award, where they could win a grant to make their innovative solution to the annual challenge theme's problem a reality.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.firstinspires.org/robotics/fll/global-innovation|title=Global Innovation|date=2015-08-06|work=FIRST|access-date=2017-08-07|archive-date=9 July 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170709072817/https://www.firstinspires.org/robotics/fll/global-innovation|url-status=live}}</ref> As of the ''Animal Allies'' Season, the First Place team wins $20,000 and two other Finalists each win $5,000. The money can be used to further the team's ideas or to continue in ''FIRST'' programs. All three finalist teams also receive a LEGO Mindstorms Education EV3 Robot Set. All submissions are reviewed by a panel of judges consisting of experts from engineering and industrial fields as well as experts in the challenge theme for that year. Teams are judged on problem identification, innovation, implementation, and effective use of STEM principles. From all of the teams nominated by every ''FIRST'' LEGO League Challenge region, twenty teams are selected as semi-finalists and are invited to attend the Global Innovation Award Celebration in San Jose<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.firstinspires.org/robotics/fll/global-innovation|title=Global Innovation|date=2015-08-06|website=FIRST|language=en|access-date=2019-01-30|archive-date=9 July 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170709072817/https://www.firstinspires.org/robotics/fll/global-innovation|url-status=live}}</ref> (formerly in Washington, D.C.) At this event, the teams present to a panel of judges, and the first place and other finalist teams winning the cash prizes are announced.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.firstinspires.org/resource-library/fll/global-innovation-guidelines|title=Global Innovation Guidelines|date=2016-09-26|work=FIRST|access-date=2017-08-07|archive-date=7 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170807113937/https://www.firstinspires.org/resource-library/fll/global-innovation-guidelines|url-status=live}}</ref>

== Notable People ==

=== Alumni ===
[[Teresa Paneque]]<ref>{{Cite web |date=2020-05-01 |title=Teresa Paneque |url=https://bacanes.cl/teresa-paneque/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220109053246/https://bacanes.cl/teresa-paneque/ |archive-date=2022-01-09 |access-date= |website=Bacanes |language=es-CL}}</ref>

=== Employees and Volunteers ===
[[Ruthe Farmer]]<ref>{{Cite web |title=Ruthe Farmer |url=https://ghc.anitab.org/speakers/2014-speakers/ruthe-farmer/ |access-date=2024-11-11 |website=Grace Hopper Celebration |language=en-US}}</ref>

[[Felienne Hermans]]<ref>{{Cite web |author=Rolf Hut |date=2015-01-24 |title=Lego-nakomelingen |url=https://www.volkskrant.nl/nieuws-achtergrond/lego-nakomelingen~bcdda7c6/ |access-date=2019-04-27 |website=volkskrant.nl |language=dutch}}</ref>

[[Anima Patil-Sabale]]<ref>{{Cite web |last=M |first=Vinita |date=2016-05-27 |title=Meet A Rocket Woman: Anima Patil-Sabale, NASA |url=https://rocket-women.com/2016/05/meet-a-rocket-woman-anima-patil-sabale-nasa/ |access-date=2024-11-11 |website=Rocket Women |language=en-GB}}</ref>

==Challenges==
The challenges for the ''FIRST'' LEGO League Challenge are annually themed based on a real world problem:

{| class="wikitable sortable mw-collapsible"
|-
! Year
! Theme
! Number of Participants
! Number of Teams<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.firstinspires.org/sites/default/files/uploads/resource_library/FL008-Glance-WEB.pdf|title=FLL At-a-Glance {{!}} FIRST LEGO League|website=www.firstlegoleague.org|language=en|access-date=2017-12-07|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171128184815/https://www.firstinspires.org/sites/default/files/uploads/resource_library/FL008-Glance-WEB.pdf|archive-date=28 November 2017|url-status=dead|df=dmy-all}}</ref>
!Number of Events
! Summary of Challenge Theme<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.firstlegoleague.org/past-challenges|title=Past Challenges {{!}} FIRST LEGO League|website=www.firstlegoleague.org|language=en|access-date=2017-08-08|archive-date=8 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170808155357/http://www.firstlegoleague.org/past-challenges|url-status=live}}</ref>
|-
| 1999-2000
|''FIRST'' Contact<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.firstlegoleague.org/default.aspx?pid=490 |title=FIRST LEGO League / 1999 |access-date=16 September 2007 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070927004902/http://www.firstlegoleague.org/default.aspx?pid=490 |archive-date=27 September 2007 |df=dmy-all }}</ref>
| 9,500
| 960
|
| It focused around a group of astronauts stranded in a space station; missions included pulling a lever to allow the astronauts into a chamber and delivering oxygen (foam balls) to different sections of the playing field.
|-
| 2000-2001
| Volcanic Panic<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.firstlegoleague.org/nobanner.aspx?pid=480 |title=FIRST LEGO League / 2000 |access-date=16 September 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070807223358/http://www.firstlegoleague.org/nobanner.aspx?pid=480 |archive-date=7 August 2007 |url-status=dead |df=dmy }}</ref>
| 15,000
| 1,540
|
| In this challenge, robots had to complete challenges prior to the eruption of a volcano,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.tntech.edu/pressreleases/lego-robots-at-ttu-to-save-planet-from-volcanoes/|title=Lego Robots at TTU to Save Planet From Volcanoes|access-date=9 August 2011|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110927035838/http://www.tntech.edu/pressreleases/lego-robots-at-ttu-to-save-planet-from-volcanoes/|archive-date=27 September 2011|df=dmy-all}}</ref> such as rescuing a stranded scientist, barricading a village from lava rocks, deploying a gas sensor, and retrieving crates of samples, among other volcano-related tasks.
|-
| 2001-2002
| Arctic Impact<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.firstlegoleague.org/nobanner.aspx?pid=120 |title=FIRST LEGO League / 2001 |access-date=16 September 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070927004728/http://www.firstlegoleague.org/nobanner.aspx?pid=120 |archive-date=27 September 2007 |url-status=dead |df=dmy }}</ref>
| 18,500
| 1,902
|
|Robots had to complete tasks on an Arctic themed board such as retrieving medicine barrels, and rescuing minifigure scientists from polar bears. 
|-
| 2002-2003
| City Sights
| 27,009
| 3,001
|
| Robots completed tasks such as clearing rocks off a soccer field, harvesting and delivering food loops, collecting toxic barrels, activating a windmill, and other city-related tasks.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.firstlegoleague.org/nobanner.aspx?pid=7520 |title=FIRST LEGO League / 2002 |access-date=16 September 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070610005546/http://www.firstlegoleague.org/nobanner.aspx?pid=7520 |archive-date=10 June 2007 |url-status=dead |df=dmy }}</ref>
|-
| 2003-2004
| [[Mission Mars]]
| 42,000
| 4,331
|
| Inspired by the year's [[Mars Exploration Rover Mission|Mars Rover mission]], competing teams had to design and construct robots to solve a number of problems like removing rocks from a 'solar panel' to ensure a Mars base energy supply, collect 'soil/rock samples' from the Martian desert landscape, etc.
|- 
| 2004-2005
| [[No Limits (FIRST)|No Limits]]
| 50,000
| 5,859
|
| Centered around various robotic assistant systems for disabled persons, robots demonstrate how the systems are (hopefully) able to solve the given problems in a satisfying way.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.firstlegoleague.org/nobanner.aspx?pid=13420 |title=FIRST LEGO League / 2004 |access-date=16 September 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070808044511/http://www.firstlegoleague.org/nobanner.aspx?pid=13420 |archive-date=8 August 2007 |url-status=dead |df=dmy }}</ref>
|-
| 2005-2006
| [[Ocean Odyssey (FIRST)|Ocean Odyssey]]
| 75,000+<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |title=FIRST 2006 Annual Report |url=https://www.firstinspires.org/sites/default/files/uploads/resource_library/2006_Annual_Report.pdf |access-date=13 March 2022 |archive-date=13 March 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220313184625/https://www.firstinspires.org/sites/default/files/uploads/resource_library/2006_Annual_Report.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref>
| 7,501<ref name=":0" />
|366<ref name=":0" />
| Involved marine-themed tasks such as mapping a sunken ship, deploying a research submarine, and cleaning up a shipping spill.
|-
| 2006-2007
| Nano Quest
| 88,000+<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |title=2007 Annual Report |url=https://www.firstinspires.org/sites/default/files/uploads/resource_library/2007_Annual_Report.pdf |access-date=13 March 2022 |archive-date=13 March 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220313184421/https://www.firstinspires.org/sites/default/files/uploads/resource_library/2007_Annual_Report.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref>
| 8,847<ref name=":1" /><ref name=challenge>{{cite web|title=The Challenge|url=http://firstlegoleague.org/challenge/thechallenge|publisher=FIRST|accessdate=8 August 2011|archive-date=17 June 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110617041650/http://www.firstlegoleague.org/challenge/thechallenge|url-status=dead}}</ref>
|454<ref name=":1" />
| The challenge is developing anything using [[nanotechnology]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.tntech.edu/pressreleases/watch-first-lego-league-tournament-in-memorial-gym-on-saturday/ |title=Watch FIRST Lego League Tournament in Memorial Gym on Saturday |access-date=9 August 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110927035824/http://www.tntech.edu/pressreleases/watch-first-lego-league-tournament-in-memorial-gym-on-saturday/ |archive-date=27 September 2011 |df=dmy }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=2006 "Nano Quest" |url=http://www.munsterrobotics.com/2006Season.php |publisher=Munster FIRST Lego League |accessdate=4 August 2011 |url-status=dead |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20120328124345/http://www.munsterrobotics.com/2006Season.php |archivedate=28 March 2012 }}</ref><ref name=ttu>{{cite web|title=Watch FIRST Lego League Tournament in Memorial Gym on Saturday |url=http://www.tntech.edu/pressreleases/watch-first-lego-league-tournament-in-memorial-gym-on-saturday/ |publisher=Tennessee Technological University |accessdate=9 August 2011 |url-status=dead |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20110927035824/http://www.tntech.edu/pressreleases/watch-first-lego-league-tournament-in-memorial-gym-on-saturday/ |archivedate=27 September 2011 }}</ref> that improves or makes life easier from medicine to computers to the environment. There were 9 missions.<ref name="info">{{cite web|url=http://www.usfirst.org/uploadedFiles/Who/FIRST_History/2006_FLL_Challenge.pdf |title=2006 FLL Challenge |publisher=[[For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology|FIRST]] |accessdate=2010-11-28 |url-status=dead |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20101202063937/http://usfirst.org/uploadedFiles/Who/FIRST_History/2006_FLL_Challenge.pdf |archivedate=2010-12-02 }}</ref> 
|-
| 2007-2008
| Power Puzzle
| 100,000+<ref name=":10" />
| 10,941<ref name=":10">{{Cite web |title=FIRST 2008 Annual Report |url=https://www.firstinspires.org/sites/default/files/uploads/resource_library/2008_Annual_Report.pdf |access-date=13 March 2022 |archive-date=13 March 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220313184310/https://www.firstinspires.org/sites/default/files/uploads/resource_library/2008_Annual_Report.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref>
|
| The challenge is on alternative energy and features tasks such as moving power lines, fuel sources and planting trees.
|-
| 2008-2009
| [[Climate Connections]]
|137,000+<ref name=":11">{{Cite web |title=FIRST 2009 Annual Report |url=https://www.firstinspires.org/sites/default/files/uploads/resource_library/2009_Annual_Report.pdf |access-date=13 March 2022 |archive-date=13 March 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220313184417/https://www.firstinspires.org/sites/default/files/uploads/resource_library/2009_Annual_Report.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref>
| 13,705<ref name=":11" />
|542+<ref name=":11" />
| The challenge focuses on the Earth's past, present, and future climate.  Students must research a climate problem occurring in their area, find a solution, then share it.  They also have to research another area which has the same problem as their area. Featured moving balls, bicycles, computers, setting up levees, etc.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.usfirst.org/firstlegoleague/community/fll/project.html |title=The Project |access-date=15 April 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090321102417/http://www.usfirst.org/firstlegoleague/community/fll/project.html |archive-date=21 March 2009 |df=dmy-all }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.usfirst.org/firstlegoleague/community/fll/overview.html |title=Welcome to Climate Connections! |access-date=15 April 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090321184551/http://www.usfirst.org/firstlegoleague/community/fll/overview.html |archive-date=21 March 2009 |df=dmy-all }}</ref>
|-
|2009-2010
|[[Smart Move (FIRST)|Smart Move]]<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.usfirst.org/roboticsprograms/fll/smartmove1.aspx |title=Transforming Transportation – Launched September 2009 |access-date=2009-10-03 |archive-date=6 September 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090906083215/http://www.usfirst.org/roboticsprograms/fll/smartmove1.aspx |url-status=live }}</ref>
|147,000+<ref name=":2">{{Cite web |title=FIRST 2010 Annual Report |url=https://www.firstinspires.org/sites/default/files/uploads/resource_library/2010_Annual_Report.pdf |access-date=13 March 2022 |archive-date=13 March 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220313184601/https://www.firstinspires.org/sites/default/files/uploads/resource_library/2010_Annual_Report.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref>
|14,725<ref name=":2" />
|542+<ref name=":2" />
| The challenge centers around efficient transportation<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.tntech.edu/pressreleases/children-to-make-smart-move-at-lego-tournament-saturday-at-tennessee-tech/ |title=Children to make 'Smart Move' at LEGO tournament Saturday at Tennessee Tech |access-date=9 August 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110927035704/http://www.tntech.edu/pressreleases/children-to-make-smart-move-at-lego-tournament-saturday-at-tennessee-tech/ |archive-date=27 September 2011 }}</ref> and teams are to solve a particular problem with the mode of transportation that they have chosen. The robot game includes activating access markers, collecting loops, toggling a lever to move a truck, avoid warning beacons, parking at one of two specified locations, etc.
|-
|2010-2011
|[[Body Forward]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.usfirst.org/community/fll/content.aspx?id=12726 |title=2010 Season Topic |access-date=15 April 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090317070726/http://www.usfirst.org/community/fll/content.aspx?id=12726 |archive-date=17 March 2009}}</ref>
|
|16,720<ref name=":12">{{Cite web |title=FIRST 2011 Annual Report |url=https://www.firstinspires.org/sites/default/files/uploads/resource_library/2011_Annual-Report.pdf |access-date=13 March 2022 |archive-date=7 April 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220407004742/https://www.firstinspires.org/sites/default/files/uploads/resource_library/2011_Annual-Report.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref>
|643+<ref name=":12" />
|Explore the cutting-edge world of biomedical engineering to discover innovative ways to repair injuries, overcome genetic predispositions, and maximize the body's potential, with the intended purpose of leading happier and healthier lives. The robot game includes moving bionic eyes to the upper body, separating red and white blood cells, opening a door, and more.
|-
|2011-2012
|[[Food Factor]]
|183,000 (est.)<ref name=":3">{{Cite web |title=FIRST 2012 Annual Report |url=https://www.firstinspires.org/sites/default/files/uploads/resource_library/2012_Annual_Report.pdf |access-date=13 March 2022 |archive-date=13 March 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220313184504/https://www.firstinspires.org/sites/default/files/uploads/resource_library/2012_Annual_Report.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref>
|18,323<ref name=":3" />
|651<ref name=":3" />
|Improving the quality of food by finding ways to prevent food contamination.<ref>{{cite news |last=Rossant |first=Juliette |author-link=Juliette Rossant |title=Join the FIRST LEGO League's Food Factor Challenge! |publisher=Super Chef |url=http://superchefblog.com/2011/05/26/join-the-first-lego-leagues-food-factor-challenge/ |date=26 June 2011 |access-date=25 October 2011 |archive-date=10 October 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111010090125/http://superchefblog.com/2011/05/26/join-the-first-lego-leagues-food-factor-challenge/ |url-status=usurped }}</ref> The missions include removing bacteria, delivering food, and refrigeration.
|-
|2012-2013
|[[Senior Solutions]]
|204,000 (est.)<ref name=":13">{{Cite web |title=FIRST 2013 Annual Report |url=https://www.firstinspires.org/sites/default/files/uploads/resource_library/2013_Annual_Report.pdf |access-date=13 March 2022 |archive-date=7 April 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220407004732/https://www.firstinspires.org/sites/default/files/uploads/resource_library/2013_Annual_Report.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref>
|20,430<ref>{{cite web |title=FLL Growth |url=http://hjernekraft.org/uploads/dokumenter/Presse/Pressemelding%202012/FLL_Growth_FNL.pdf |publisher=FIRST |access-date=9 September 2015 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150909183652/http://hjernekraft.org/uploads/dokumenter/Presse/Pressemelding%202012/FLL_Growth_FNL.pdf |archive-date=9 September 2015 }}</ref>
|1,022<ref name=":13" />
|Improve and maintain the quality of life of senior citizens
|-
|2013-2014
|Nature's Fury<ref>{{cite web|title=2013 Nature's Fury Challenge|url=http://firstlegoleague.org/challenge/2013naturesfury|publisher=FIRST|access-date=4 June 2012|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121121095445/http://firstlegoleague.org/challenge/2013naturesfury|archive-date=21 November 2012|df=dmy-all}}</ref>
|237,000 (est.)<ref name=":4">{{Cite web |title=FIRST 2014 Annual Report |url=https://www.firstinspires.org/sites/default/files/uploads/resource_library/2014AnnualDesign_FINAL_reducedsize_web.pdf |access-date=13 March 2022 |archive-date=13 March 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220313184313/https://www.firstinspires.org/sites/default/files/uploads/resource_library/2014AnnualDesign_FINAL_reducedsize_web.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref>
|23,748<ref name=":4" />
|1,130<ref name=":4" />
|Explore the awe-inspiring storms, quakes, waves and more that we call natural disasters. Teams will discover what can be done when intense natural events meet the places people live, work, and play.
|-
|2014-2015
|[[World Class - Learning Unleashed|World Class]]<ref>{{cite web|title=2014 FLL World Class Challenge|url=http://www.firstlegoleague.org/challenge/2014fllworldclass|publisher=FIRST|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131202224637/http://www.firstlegoleague.org/challenge/2014fllworldclass|archive-date=2 December 2013|df=dmy-all}}</ref>
|210,000 (est.)<ref name=":5">{{Cite web |title=FIRST 2015 Annual Report |url=https://www.firstinspires.org/sites/default/files/uploads/resource_library/2015_Annual_Report.pdf |access-date=13 March 2022 |archive-date=13 March 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220313184331/https://www.firstinspires.org/sites/default/files/uploads/resource_library/2015_Annual_Report.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref>
|26,044<ref name=":5" />
|1,274<ref name=":5" />
|Redesign how we gather knowledge and skills in the 21st century. This includes learning any kind of skill at any age.
|-
|2015-2016
|Trash Trek<ref>{{Cite web|url = http://firstlegoleague.org/challenge/2015trashtrek|title = 2015 TRASH TREK Challenge|website = FIRST Lego League|publisher = FIRST|access-date = 19 December 2014|archive-date = 19 December 2014|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20141219045238/http://firstlegoleague.org/challenge/2015trashtrek|url-status = live}}</ref>
|232,000 (est.)<ref name=":6">{{Cite web |title=FIRST 2016 Annual Report |url=http://firstinspiresst01.blob.core.windows.net/files/2016-Annual-Report.pdf |access-date=13 March 2022 |archive-date=24 March 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220324014520/https://firstinspiresst01.blob.core.windows.net/files/2016-Annual-Report.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref>
|29,034<ref name=":6" />
|1,407<ref name=":6" />
|Make less trash or improve the way people handle the trash we make 
|-
|2016-2017
|Animal Allies<ref>{{Cite web|title = 2016 ANIMAL ALLIES Challenge {{!}} FIRST LEGO League|url = http://www.firstlegoleague.org/2016-animal-allies-challenge|website = www.firstlegoleague.org|access-date = 6 February 2016|url-status = dead|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160206234857/http://www.firstlegoleague.org/2016-animal-allies-challenge|archive-date = 6 February 2016|df = dmy-all}}</ref>
|248,000 (est.)<ref name=":7">{{Cite web |title=FIRST 2017 Annual Report |url=https://www.firstinspires.org/sites/default/files/uploads/annual-report/fy2017-annual-impact-report.pdf |access-date=13 March 2022 |archive-date=7 April 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220407004721/https://www.firstinspires.org/sites/default/files/uploads/annual-report/fy2017-annual-impact-report.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref>
|31,079<ref name=":7" />
|1,407<ref name=":7" />
|It's all about helping our furry, feathered, and finned friends. Improve the way that people and animals interact. What might become possible when we learn to help each other?
|-
|2017-2018
|[[Hydro Dynamics (FIRST)|Hydro Dynamics]]<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://firstlegoleague.org/challenge|title=Challenge {{!}} FIRST LEGO League|website=firstlegoleague.org|language=en|access-date=2017-08-07|archive-date=25 December 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151225081825/http://www.firstlegoleague.org/challenge|url-status=live}}</ref>
|280,000 (est.)<ref name=":8">{{Cite web |title=FIRST 2018 Annual Impact Report |url=https://www.firstinspires.org/sites/default/files/uploads/resource_library/2015_Annual_Report.pdf |access-date=13 March 2022 |archive-date=13 March 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220313184331/https://www.firstinspires.org/sites/default/files/uploads/resource_library/2015_Annual_Report.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref>
|35,033<ref name=":8" />
|1,423<ref name=":8" />
|On your mark, get set, flow! Learn all about water – how we find, transport, use, or dispose of it. This year's challenge focuses on missions related to water, such as deploying a water pump, and turning a faucet.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://firstlegoleague.org/challenge#block-block-19|title=Challenge {{!}} FIRST LEGO League|website=firstlegoleague.org|language=en|access-date=2017-08-07|archive-date=7 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170807114033/http://firstlegoleague.org/challenge#block-block-19|url-status=live}}</ref>
|-
|2018-2019
|[[Into Orbit (FIRST)|Into Orbit]]<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://firstlegoleague.org/challenge|title=Challenge {{!}} FIRST LEGO League|website=firstlegoleague.org|language=en|access-date=2018-08-09|archive-date=25 December 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151225081825/http://www.firstlegoleague.org/challenge|url-status=live}}</ref>
|281,120<ref name=":9">{{Cite web |title=FIRST 2019 Annual Impact Report |url=https://www.firstinspires.org/sites/default/files/uploads/annual-report/fy2019-annual-impact-report.pdf |access-date=13 March 2022 |archive-date=13 March 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220313184454/https://www.firstinspires.org/sites/default/files/uploads/annual-report/fy2019-annual-impact-report.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref>
|35,140<ref name=":9" />
|1,531<ref name=":9" />
|The 2018/2019 ''FIRST''® LEGO League season will transport your team into space, where you'll explore, challenge, and innovate in the vast expanse of space.
|-
|2019-2020
|City Shaper<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://info.firstinspires.org/city-shaper|title=CITY SHAPER|last=FIRST|website=info.firstinspires.org|language=en|access-date=2020-02-08|archive-date=2 February 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200202191219/https://info.firstinspires.org/city-shaper|url-status=live}}</ref>
|318,000
|38,609<ref>{{Cite web |title=FIRST 2020 Annual Report |url=https://www.firstinspires.org/sites/default/files/uploads/annual-report/fy2020-annual-impact-report.pdf |access-date=13 March 2022 |archive-date=13 March 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220313184528/https://www.firstinspires.org/sites/default/files/uploads/annual-report/fy2020-annual-impact-report.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref>
|
|City Shaper focused on cities, and missions involved things such as putting a bat on a tree, resolving a traffic jam, and causing a wheelchair swing to swing. 
This was a unique year as competition rules changed, 
a “home area” was created
and for the first time contestants were asked to stop on the map, or the bridge on the map in this case. This allowed for two tables to have what was called “A battle for the bridge.” Robots that only went up the bridge on one table were rewarded the points associated with the bridge. If both robots went up the bridge, points were awarded to the robot who was positioned higher up on the bridge.
|-
|2020-2021
|[[RePlay]]
|120,144<ref>{{Cite web |title=FIRST 2021 Annual Impact Report |url=https://www.firstinspires.org/sites/default/files/uploads/annual-report/fy2021-annual-impact-report.pdf |access-date=13 March 2022 |archive-date=13 March 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220313184321/https://www.firstinspires.org/sites/default/files/uploads/annual-report/fy2021-annual-impact-report.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref>
|
|
|This was a hybrid competition that focused on health and sports. Missions involved things such as pushing a minifigure down a slide. This was the first season to use [[Lego Education#Spike Prime|LEGO Education SPIKE Prime]] parts.
|-
|2021-2022
|[[Cargo Connect]]
|225,300+<ref>{{Cite web |title=FIRST 2022 Annual Impact Report |url=https://firstinspiresst01.blob.core.windows.net/annual-report/annual-report/first-fy22-annual-impact-report.pdf |access-date=15 January 2023 |archive-date=15 January 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230115224127/https://firstinspiresst01.blob.core.windows.net/annual-report/annual-report/first-fy22-annual-impact-report.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref>
|
|
|This competition focuses on cargo transport. Missions include taking cargo from a cargo plane and dropping crates from a helicopter.
|-
|2022-2023
|SUPERPOWERED
|280,300+<ref>{{Cite web |title=FIRST 2023 Annual Impact Report |url=https://firstinspires.blob.core.windows.net/general/first-fy23-annual-impact-report.pdf |access-date=13 January 2024 |archive-date=6 January 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240106200150/https://firstinspires.blob.core.windows.net/general/first-fy23-annual-impact-report.pdf |url-status=live }}</ref>
|
|
|For the first time, 2 home areas were added, teams will explore where energy comes from, and how it is distributed, stored, and used.
|-
|2023-2024
|MasterPiece
|
|
|
|Focuses on how to use art and technology to express your hobbies and interest.
|-
|2024-2025
|Submerged
|
|
|
|Focuses on marine exploration and discovery of the ocean with the help of innovative realistic solutions.
|-
|2025-2026
|Unearthed
|
|
|
|
|}

<gallery>
File:NanoQuest2006.jpg|Nanoquest logo
File:Nano Quest Field.jpg|Nano Quest field
</gallery>

== See also ==
* [[RoboCup Junior]]
* [[Lego Robotics|LEGO Robotics]]
{{Clear}}

==Notes==
{{Reflist}}

== External links ==
{{Commons category|FIRST Lego League}}
* {{Official website|http://www.firstlegoleague.org/}}
* [http://www.usfirst.org/ Official FIRST website] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150307010816/http://www.usfirst.org/roboticsprograms |date=7 March 2015 }}
* [http://www.fll-freak.com/ FLL-Freak Website and home of the FLL UFAQ]
*[https://web.archive.org/web/20080522043118/http://www.firstjapan.jp/aoc/ FLL Open Asian Championship website]
*[https://web.archive.org/web/20080111040030/http://www.usfirst.org/what/fll/default.aspx?id=390 USFIRST.org/What FLL is]
*[https://web.archive.org/web/20071113171223/http://www.usfirst.org/community/fll/default.aspx?id=970 USFIRST.org/FLL community]
*[https://web.archive.org/web/20070928094143/http://www.hands-on-technology.de/en/firstlegoleague Hands on Technology/FLL]
*[http://www.hightechkids.org/ HighTechKids.org]
*[http://www.fsrobotics.org First State Robotics website]
*[https://web.archive.org/web/20081231091605/http://www.fsrobotics.org/lego/ First State FIRST LEGO League website]
*[https://web.archive.org/web/20160206234857/http://www.firstlegoleague.org/2016-animal-allies-challenge Animal Allies Teaser]
*[https://web.archive.org/web/20070927004853/http://www.firstlegoleague.org/default.aspx?pid=21380 Nano Quest main page] on the FLL website

{{Lego}}
{{FIRST}}

[[Category:For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology]]
[[Category:FIRST Lego League games|*]]
[[Category:Recurring events established in 1999]]
[[Category:Lego]]