The Thrust Chamber Assembly (TCA)  team is responsible for designing, validating, and manufacturing the powerhouse our rocket engine - the thrust chamber, nozzle, and cooling systems. These critical components house the combustion process and generates the hot, high-pressure gases necessary for propulsion.

The work of the Thrust Chamber Assembly team is of upmost importance as it directly impacts the performance, reliability, and safety of our rocket engine. This involves the use of analytical and computation methods, and takes into account fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, and heat transfer. Examples of engineering work conducted by the Thrust Chamber Assembly team includes: 

• Modeling components using computer aided design programs

• Conducting thermal and structural analysis to ensure the thrust chamber and nozzle can withstand extreme operating conditions

• Manufacturing components using a lathe, CNC machine, and electroplating

The Injector Plate (INJ) team is responsible for the design and fabrication of the injector plate, a critical components of our rocket engine that atomizes and mixes the propellants before they enter the combustion chamber. The injector plays a vital role in achieving stable and efficient combustion. The injector also plays an important role in cooling the internal walls of the thrust chamber using fuel film cooling.

Examples of engineering work conducted by the Injector team includes: 

• Modeling complex components using computer aided design, selecting seals and materials to ensure injector safety

• Analyzing fluid dynamics and combustion behavior to ensure reliable ignition, optimal propellent mixing, and sustained combustion

• Employing advanced manufacturing techniques to fabricate intricate and high-performance injector plate designs

The Fluid Systems (FSYS) team manages, designs, and builds the heart of our rocket engine: the feed, pressurization, and flow control for all liquids and gases in the engine and engine test systems.  They also operate for the water flow test stand which allows us to verify the performance of our injectors and valves.

Examples of engineering work conducted by the Fluid Systems team includes: 

• Designing, modeling, and analyzing propellent feed systems to optimize flow rates, pressure regulation, and overall system safety

• Selecting and integrating appropriate propellant valves, pressure regulators, adapters, pressure sensors, and piping

• Creating and implementing procedures for all engine operations

• Working with other subsystem teams to ensure integrability of all systems in the engine

The Structures (STR) team is responsible for the design, analysis, and fabrication of our rocket engines test stand and ground infrastructure. Their work ensures that the engine can withstand high forces, vibrations, and thermal loads while firing. The engine test stand and fluid systems stand integrate with several electrical components to measure engine data. 

Examples of engineering work conducted by the Structures team includes: 

• Modeling engine mount components utilizing computer aided design

• Structural analysis and finite element modeling of engine infrastructure to evaluate and optimize for engine safety and reliability. 

• Fabrication of various components using various machinery, tools, and welding equipment

The Avionics and Controls Cystems (AVI) team designs, builds, and tests the electronics and algorithms for the Genesis engine, including sensors, motorized valves, dataloggers, and control systems.

Avionic systems on the Genesis engine play a critical role in ensuring the safe and reliable operation of the engine during all stages of operation. These systems are responsible for collecting, analyzing, and storing data from a variety of sensors throughout the engine, and using that data to make decisions about how the engine should operate.

Some specific tasks that avionic systems perform on the Genesis engine include monitoring the performance of the engine, regulating the flow of fuel and oxidizer into the engine, and adjusting valve positions for different stages of operation. Avionics systems are also responsible for managing communication between the rocket and the control station, and for ensuring that the rocket stays within safe operating parameters at all times.

The Safety and Quality Control (SAFE) team is responsible for ensuring that safety measures are implemented throughout the design, manufacturing, and testing processes, and that rigorous quality control procedures are followed to maintain the highest standards of excellence. 

Examples of engineering work conducted by the Safety and Quality Control team includes: 

• Conduct risk assessments, identify potential hazards, and implement appropriate safety measures to mitigate risks. 

• Establishes quality control procedures to maintain high standards and consistency in the manufacturing and assembly of rocket engine components. 

• Provides training sessions and workshops to enhance awareness and understanding of safety protocols and quality control procedures among team members. 

The Business and Marketing (BIZ) team plays a crucial role in the overall success of the Rocket Engine Design Team. They handle various aspects of management, fundraising, outreach, and promoting the team's work to the broader community. 

Examples of work conducted by the Business and Marketing sub-team include:

• Developing a business plan and budget for the team's activities and projects.

• Collaborating with industry partners, sponsors, and potential donors to secure funding and resources.

• Organizing public outreach events, participating in competitions, and maintaining the team's website and social media presence.