Physics Icebreaker Project is an intensive, week‑long group project that introduces new physics students to university‑level study through an exciting real‑world challenge: designing a crewed mission to Mars. Working in small teams, students apply physics ideas from across the discipline, develop collaborative and communication skills, and experience problem‑based learning in a supportive environment. The module also introduces responsible and critical use of generative AI as a tool for learning and scientific communication, helping students build good academic habits from the very start of their degree.