The precipitation of orange orbs is a rare meteorological phenomenon better known as Ball State University's second annual Pumpkin Drop, which will take place from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on LaFollette Field next to Worthen Arena.

The event, sponsored by the Technology Education Collegiate Association and Howell Farms, requires participants to design an apparatus to protect a pumpkin from a 50-foot drop.

Judges will award prizes in two divisions — K-12 and entries from colleges and universities — based on how well the pumpkins survive the fall, how close they land to the target and on the aesthetic appeal of the protective container. Each division will award $100 for first place, $50 for second and $25 for third.

To protect a pumpkin, participants must have an understanding of physics and technological design, said Scott Warner, event organizer and an industry and technology professor.

"Understanding the structure of a pumpkin is just as important as knowing how it absorbs and disperses impact," he said. "Car airbags and sand-filled barrels placed around concrete barriers offer tips into understanding those principles."

Even with those tips, Warner still anticipates plenty of smashing pumpkins, sending participants back to the drawing board to improve next year's design.

For information, log on to www.bsu.edu/cast/itech/pumpkindrop.htm.

(Note to Editors: For more information, contact Warner at (765) 285-5646 or swarner@bsu.edu.)