Taking up roughly two-thirds of the rocket, the Propulsion team manages one of the largest and most critical systems on the vehicle. Simply put, the propulsion system must generate sufficient thrust to propel the rocket to its targeted altitude while remaining as light and reliable as possible. 

Because the system is based on a hybrid rocket motor, it comprises several distinct sub-assemblies—from pressure vessels to combustion chambers—each requiring unique engineering considerations. With component failure leading to a total loss of the vehicle, the performance demands are exceptionally high, pushing the team to develop creative, robust, and highly reliable solutions. 

As a member of the team, you will apply thermofluid principles to extreme physical conditions and gain hands-on experience designing and testing real rocket hardware. 

What to Expect 

While we inherit a system that successfully completed three static hot fires over the past 12 months, the entire propulsion assembly will undergo a new design cycle to optimise weight, refine fluid routing, and maximise reliability for launch. Typical tasks include: 

• Redesigning and optimising components across the entire system, including tanks, pipe networks, ignition systems, and a new combustion chamber; 

• Performing thermal, structural, and fluid analyses on high-pressure and high-temperature components; 

• Conducting thorough hydrostatic and pneumatic pressure testing on all manufactured components; 

• Executing cold-flow testing to validate feed system line losses and injector performance; 

• Preparing, setting up, and participating in a minimum of three static hot-fire motor tests planned for 2027; 

• Collaborating with other sub-teams to manage mechanical interfaces and minimise dry mass. 

Work will be planned around university exams and deadlines where possible, but members are expected to maintain consistent engagement and contribute to scheduled testing campaigns. 

What We’re Looking For 

Prior experience with rocket propulsion or pressure systems is not required—the necessary domain knowledge will be developed on the project. A strong grasp of core mechanical and thermofluid fundamentals is important. 

We are particularly looking for people who are: 

• Eager to tackle complex, high-energy engineering problems outside standard coursework; 

• Proactive, detail-oriented, and safety-conscious when handling critical hardware; 

• Reliable and communicative when working in high-stakes testing environments; 

• Willing to commit to a 12-month project lifecycle alongside their degree studies; 

• Enthusiastic about getting hands-on experience during shop-floor assembly and field testing campaigns. 

Applications are welcome from students of all years and disciplines. 

Relevant Skills 

Required: 

• Basic CAD experience, preferably Autodesk Inventor Professional. 

• Solid understanding of core engineering fundamentals (thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, or stress analysis). 

Beneficial but not necessary: 

• Heat transfer analysis, CFD, or FEA experience. 

• Exposure to fluid/pressure networks or geared mechanical systems. 

• Rapid prototyping and hands-on workshop experience. 

• Understanding of technical drawings, and manufacturing methods.