Spin Stabilized Rocket

I launched my first high powered amateur rocket on November 18th 2023. This was the first of several planned launches. The goal of this launch was to test the airframe design, propulsion, and launch procedures. Future launches will include a custom sensor to track the rate of spin for the rocket.

This launch used an Aerotech H100W motor and included a dummy payload to approximate the center of mass for future launches. I designed and 3D printed many of the parts including:

  • 7:4 Ogive Nosecone

  • Payload bay

  • Rail alignment collar

  • Bulkheads

  • Fins (Rhode St. Genese 32, flat bottom airfoil profile)

The nosecone ratio was determined by the print volume of my 3D printer. The payload bay was designed to accomodate load cells and test masses for future fabrication. Bulkheads were designed with embedded mounting hardware. A flat-bottomed profile was chosen for the fins to simplify 3D printing and mounting. The rocket was painted to improve visibility of spin rate for later analysis.

Exploded animation of the nose cone & roll sensor assembly