The Aerostructures Subteam is focused on manufacturing the airframe for Rocketry. Each year we perform a full design, analysis, and build cycle in preparation for the Spaceport America Cup. The airframe is made primarily of carbon fiber composites. This year, the team has been focusing on performing all the airframe manufacturing in-house utilizing a new filament winding machine. This will greatly increase the capabilities of the club by manufacturing new rockets while keeping costs low.
Another new project this year is the boattail to reduce the base drag of the rocket. This allows for a heavier rocket weight while making sure we attain our target apogee. There are also research projects into aerodynamic shape optimization of our nosecone, fins, and boattail to continually improve the performance of our rockets in years to come.
