L1 Certification Rocket

For the L1 Certification Rocket, I challenged my self to design, build, and test a rocket which could withstand the forces of an L1 and L2 class rocket motor. The goal of these launches was to earn a L1 and L2 rocketry certifications which would certify me to purchase more powerful rocket motors. In terms of constraints, I wished to minimize the cost of the design as much as possible, make the rocket reusable, and make the components of the rocket standardized and interchangeable. 

This project employed a myriad of skills from designing, simulating, and performing aerodynamic calculations to handling power tools with precision, soldering, and optimizing the structures created by a 3D printer and laser cutter. In particular, Fusion 360 was employed to plan out and design the sub-components of the rocket before the entire assembly was tested using Open Rocket simulation software which allowed me to determine the stability quotient and the flight plan of the rocket given adverse circumstances such as increased wind speed or propellant instability. The Open Rocket software also allowed me to test and optimize multiple motor configurations and parachute ejection times. From there, a 3D printer and a laser cutter were used to fabricate the components from the winter birch fins to the tangent ogive nosecone. A vulcanized rubber tube served as the fuselage of the rocket and a rotary tool in conjunction with a power drill were used to make the necessary cuts and holes to precisely fit the components to the larger assembly. Overall, this project stands as testimony to both the digital and physical aspects of engineering. Without the simulations, CAD models, and planning the certification launch could never have occurred. The same could be said for the precision and deftness with which the power tools had to handled to ensure that the rocket was of sufficient quality and structural stability to withstand the stresses of a launch. Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this project and its fusion of multiplied disparate aspects of aerospace engineering. The skills learned to create such a vehicle will truly be invaluable to me as I continue my work in the Longhorn Rocketry Association and pursue employment in the wider aerospace industry. Looking forward, I plan to outfit this airframe to be compatible with an L2 rocket motor because the components are compatible with such devices and represents the next logical step in my pursuit of the stars and the great beyond.