- Old Dominion University is making its debut at the International Rocket Engineering Competition this summer.
- The Old Dominion Rocketry Club has built an ambitious rocket, “Reign,” specifically designed for the 10K COTS category.
- More than 170 student teams from 32 countries will participate, showcasing their rocket engineering skills.
- “Reign” includes advanced features like GPS, a barometric pressure altimeter, and a video camera for launch documentation.
- Students from various majors collaborate within the ODRC, preparing for future careers in aerospace.
- The club benefits from industry support, with sponsors helping to fund their preparations and a GoFundMe campaign in place.
- This initiative aims to inspire and cultivate the next generation of aerospace leaders at Old Dominion University.
This summer, the Old Dominion Rocketry Club (ODRC) is set to make history as they compete in the prestigious International Rocket Engineering Competition, marking Old Dominion University’s first appearance at this global event. More than 170 student teams from 32 countries will converge at the Midland International Air and Space Port in Texas, launching rockets to reach remarkable heights of 10,000 to 30,000 feet.
The ODRC has been hard at work since January, constructing their ambitious rocket, aptly named “Reign.” With a sleek 10-foot frame and a sturdy fiberglass body, this powerhouse is designed to soar high in the 10K Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) category. Equipped with a GPS, barometric pressure altimeter, and a video camera for capturing launch footage, “Reign” must carry at least 4.4 pounds of payload to succeed.
Leading the charge, student president Brett Michal envisions this competition as a vital opportunity for growth and networking. “Competing at this level not only showcases our skills but also prepares us for careers in aerospace,” he shared. With supportive sponsors like Onshape and Auxiliary Systems Incorporated, the ODRC is raising funds through a GoFundMe campaign to cover travel and materials.
Founded in early 2023 by Michal and his classmates, the ODRC fosters a collaborative environment where students from all majors can innovate and learn about rocketry. With advisors and industry connections guiding them, these budding engineers are soaring to new heights – and they’re just getting started.
The key takeaway? This dedicated team is not just aiming for the sky; they’re working hard to inspire a new generation of aerospace leaders right here at ODU.
Soaring to New Heights: Old Dominion Rocketry Club Prepares for Global Competition
Old Dominion Rocketry Club’s Historic Endeavor
This summer, the Old Dominion Rocketry Club (ODRC) is set to make history as they compete in the prestigious International Rocket Engineering Competition, marking Old Dominion University’s first appearance at this global event. More than 170 student teams from 32 countries will converge at the Midland International Air and Space Port in Texas, launching rockets to reach remarkable heights of 10,000 to 30,000 feet.
The ODRC has been hard at work since January, constructing their ambitious rocket, aptly named “Reign.” With a sleek 10-foot frame and a sturdy fiberglass body, this powerhouse is designed to soar high in the 10K Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) category. Equipped with a GPS, barometric pressure altimeter, and a video camera for capturing launch footage, “Reign” must carry at least 4.4 pounds of payload to succeed.
Leading the charge, student president Brett Michal envisions this competition as a vital opportunity for growth and networking. “Competing at this level not only showcases our skills but also prepares us for careers in aerospace,” he shared. With supportive sponsors like Onshape and Auxiliary Systems Incorporated, the ODRC is raising funds through a GoFundMe campaign to cover travel and materials.
Founded in early 2023 by Michal and his classmates, the ODRC fosters a collaborative environment where students from all majors can innovate and learn about rocketry. With advisors and industry connections guiding them, these budding engineers are soaring to new heights – and they’re just getting started.
Key Insights About the ODRC and Their Rocket
1. Sustainability Practices: The ODRC is integrating sustainability into their design concepts. The materials used for the rocket “Reign” have been selected not only for performance but also for their lower environmental impact.
2. Market Forecasts: The increasing interest in aerospace and rocketry at university levels is expected to contribute to a growing workforce in the aerospace industry. Competitions like the one ODRC is entering are pivotal in encouraging students to pursue careers in this field.
3. Use Cases of Technology in Rocketry: The GPS and altimeter technologies employed in “Reign” are emerging not just in rocketry but also in various industries such as aerospace engineering and meteorology, making these skills valuable across disciplines.
Important Questions Answered
1. What kind of training do ODRC members receive?
ODRC members undergo hands-on workshops focusing on aerodynamics, propulsion systems, and software programming for onboard systems. This practical training prepares them for real-world challenges in rocketry.
2. How does competing in the International Rocket Engineering Competition benefit students?
Competing provides exposure to industry professionals, enhances problem-solving skills, and strengthens teamwork capabilities, all essential attributes in the aerospace sector.
3. What is the future outlook for student-led rocketry clubs?
The future is bright for student-led rocketry clubs as universities increasingly support these initiatives, leading to more competitions and potential partnerships with space-related industries, fostering innovation.
For more information about aerospace education and rocketry initiatives, visit Old Dominion University.
