Rocket Science Lab

PROJECT OVERVIEW

Working with a small engineering team, I helped modify a stock Estes rocket to carry a custom sensor package capable of collecting flight data. The project required redesigning the rocket's internal structure, integrating the sensor suite, and adapting the existing vehicle to accommodate the additional payload.

DESIGN INTEGRATION

I planned the rocket's primary structural modifications and sensor integration, developed an exploded CAD model of the modified system, and physically modified the vehicle to implement the design.

Dimensioned system drawing and exploded assembly developed for the modified rocket.

PAYLOAD PROTECTION

I also designed a heat shield to protect the sensor payload from the rocket motor and potential thermal exposure.

UNEXPECTED TEST:    MOTOR FAILURE 

During flight, the rocket motor failed catastrophically. Although the mission itself was unsuccessful, the heat shield performed as intended and protected the sensor suite from the engine failure.

OUTCOME

The heat shield successfully protected the sensor payload during the motor failure, leaving the sensor suite intact and reusable despite the loss of the vehicle. The unexpected failure provided an unplanned real-world test of the payload protection system and demonstrated that the design performed its intended protective function.

MOTOR FAILURE → PAYLOAD SURVIVED