Development and Launch of an Experimental Rocket with an in-built solar-powered quasi-satellite with contra-rotating propeller

Abstract

This study provides a description for project-based learning design and production of an experimental rocket with an in-built quasi-satellite developed by Uchuu Space Club (UCG) in the graduate course of Mechatronic engineering, Gifu University. UCG has been participating in rocket launch since 2005. From previous models, satellite recovery has been problematic particularly in descent stability and target drop point. The present study sought to utilize a foldable, free-falling contra-rotating propeller to stabilize satellite descent using solar energy to power the propellers. The mechanical aspects of rocket and satellite model were designed using 3D CAD software, validated with TRAJECTO simulation tests for the rocket and prototype descent for the satellite. The developed rocket was exhibited in France’s Association of Planete Sciences in 2018 successfully. The experimental rocket performed as expected rising to an altitude of 750 meters in 13 seconds which was consistent with simulation results. From the flight path, the satellite deployed successfully but the propeller failed to open. Further experimentation is recommended from the current model to ascertain the performance of the quasi-satellite recovery in launch tests.