The University of Aberdeen's rocketry team recently demonstrated their impressive capabilities at the National Rocketry Championship (NRC), the UK's leading university-level rocketry event. Organized annually by UKSEDS, this competition challenges student teams to design, build, and launch rockets to a target altitude of 2,500 feet, attracting participants from both UK and international universities.
In a noteworthy achievement, the Aberdeen team secured a respectable ninth place, with their rocket reaching an altitude of 350 meters, equivalent to 1,148 feet. The rocket, standing one meter tall, was primarily constructed from carbon fiber and featured 3D printed components. It was equipped with a small brick smartphone and a commercial flight computer, which were instrumental in recording data and maintaining communication with ground control throughout the flight.
The Aberdeen team's rocket incorporated several innovative features that set it apart from its competitors. One of the standout elements was the angled fins, designed to induce spin and stabilize the rocket during take-off. This spinning motion also facilitated the deployment of the parachute through centrifugal force. Unlike the traditional method of using an ejection charge from the nose cone for parachute deployment, Aberdeen's rocket utilized a mechanical side-door system, allowing the parachute to be released from the rocket's body.
Furthermore, the team made a strategic decision to use lighter foaming PLA instead of the standard PLA for the 3D printed parts, significantly reducing the rocket's overall weight. This choice played a crucial role in enhancing the rocket's performance and efficiency.
Luccas Ellery, a second-year Linguistics student and active member of the University's Rocketry Society, shared his thoughts on the experience: "Participating in the NRC was incredibly enriching for our team. We gained valuable knowledge about launch procedures, UKRA regulations, and the intricacies of launching a rocket at such a prestigious event. It also provided us with essential insights into time management and offered excellent networking opportunities with other teams and industry professionals."