Rocket Team

Research

The proposed area of research is to design and test a compact tube-launched glider for payload in a rocket that will be launched to 10,000 feet AGL. The glider will be stored inside the payload section of a high-powered rocket, launched to a specific altitude, deployed via an ejection charge, and then flown remotely to the specific target. Meanwhile, the rocket will deploy a recovery system to return to the ground; a design already conceived will control its descent path. Students from the BYU Rocket Team will have opportunities to participate in the design process as they research how to implement a deployment mechanism for the glider and rocket’s recovery, possibly using an electronic altimeter. They will learn about: how to use simulation software (RockSim), feasibility of design, aerodynamic stability and airflow, and how to correct for all possible errors that may go wrong—not just in construction, but during the launch as well.

Project Status

Currently, we are in the planning stage. Members of the team are parts of specialized groups that are each designing a specific component of the tube launched glider and rocket, and are working with each other to get make sure the rocket, glider and launcher all work as one. The next step in the process will be to simulate and test the feasibility of all the designs working together, with RockSim and compliant mechanisms.

The rocket designs can be found in the Photo Archive. Additional members can join. ME 595R credit is available. NAR or Tripoli Level 1, 2, or 3 certified team members wanted.

Launches

Monthly sport launches at Rock Canyon, TBA. Bring your own rockets and fly them!

Meetings

Meetings are Tuesdays from 4-6PM in 381 CB.