RockSat-X
RockSat-X is a program for students to design, build, and fly a sounding rocket experiment on a Terrier-Improved Malemute sounding rocket.
RockSat-X is a program for students to design, build, and fly a sounding rocket experiment on a Terrier-Improved Malemute sounding rocket. Each experiment is integrated onto an aluminum deck that will be fully exposed to the space environment at apogee (150-170km) upon despin and skin ejection, providing a microgravity environment to experimenters. Each experiment is provided with a power and telemetry interface. Experiments can also be pointed at a target during the flight.
This is a competitive program and space on the rocket is limited. Depending on the available space, the most well-prepared and organized teams will be selected for flight. The RockSat-X User Guide describes the design constraints and interfaces (see document below).
RockSat-X engages students in a thorough design process, documented by design reviews (CoDR, PDR, CDR) in the fall and testing and integration reviews (STR, ISTR, FMSR, VVC) in the spring. All manifested experiments must be delivered for testing and integration in late May. RockSat-X traditionally does integration and testing at Wallops Flight Facility in June and launches in August. While faculty advising or industry partnership is encouraged for both programs, the work shall be done by the student participants.
