Rocket Launch and Recovery of Sensitive Payloads (Black Team)

Discipline: MAE

Advisor: Roger Allen

This project focuses on the design and development of a reusable high-powered rocket system capable of safely launching and recovering fragile payloads, such as raw eggs, at altitudes exceeding 2,000 feet. Traditional payload integration methods often lack modularity or adaptability for sensitive cargo. In contrast, this design features a custom-fabricated payload bay engineered for rapid redeployment between launch cycles, allowing quick payload swaps without compromising protection or system alignment. The rocket is single-deployment, relying on a main parachute ejection at apogee to reduce system complexity and improve reliability. The payload bay is cushioned and enclosed within a bisected airframe, enabling fast access for loading and unloading while maintaining structural integrity during flight. This configuration is ideal for scenarios where repeated launches with different sensitive payloads are needed, such as aerospace material testing, academic demonstrations, or rapid-fire recovery experiments. With a focus on modularity, protection, and reusability, this system offers a practical platform for exploring flight dynamics and payload survivability. It stands apart by combining high-altitude performance with adaptable payload handling in a valuable cost-effective solution.

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