UCI Rocket Project
Background
The UC Irvine Rocket Project aims to push the boundaries of collegiate rocketry and the development of liquid propellant rockets. Our project strives to prepare students for successful careers in the aerospace and defense industry. In 2017, Base 11 became a partner of the UCI Rocket Project. Their gracious donation enabled the construction of our rocket lab as well as provided enough support to join in the Base 11 Space Challenge.
Goal and Objectives
Static Test Fire
The UC Irvine Rocket Project initially participated in the FAR-MARS competition. The challenge has ended but the requirements have provided parameters for our first complete engine. During Spring quarter of 2019, the team has scheduled a static test fire to experimentally verify our first engine design. An experimental combustion test is a critical first step in designing a full rocket system as well more efficient, higher performance engines.
Base 11 Space Challenge
The Base 11 Space Challenge awards a $1M+ prize for a student-led team to design, build and launch a liquid-propelled, single stage rocket to an altitude of 100 kilometers (the Karman Line) by December 30, 2021. The Base 11 Challenge requires our team to meet various checkpoints to ensure proper design and safety practices. Each of these technical design checkpoints are judged for points in the competition. In addition to meeting technical requirements, exemplary solutions and innovative design decisions are rewarded. Phase 1 details the technical plan, whereas Phase 2 focuses on operation and safety requirements. The final phase, Phase 3, evaluates launch readiness. Due to the complexity of this challenge, the phases are due in 2019, 2020, and 2021 respectively.
Team Website
Contacts (2018-2019)
Faculty Advisors: Professor Mark Walter (m.walter@uci.edu), Professor Ken Mease (kmease@uci.edu)
Student Contact: Project Manager – Brian Fox (bcfox@uci.edu), Chief Engineer – Srinath Gopalakrishnan (srinatg@uci.edu)
