Thrust-Vector Controlled Rocket

Thrust Vector Control (TVC) Rocket

Drones • Platforms

A self-landing rocket platform designed to deploy 1U CubeSats into suborbital or orbital trajectories.

Highlights

  • Dual-axis TVC system with precise servo feedback
  • Real-time FreeRTOS flight control
  • Modular avionics with sensor fusion (IMU + barometer + GPS)
  • Ground station telemetry via LoRa to achieve live flight data
  • Soft-landing sequence using closed-loop descent control
  • Considering Aerodynamics, Efficiency, and Affordability when developing designs and structures

Overview

This project aims to demonstrate a reusable launch system that combines thrust vector control and autonomous flight software. Its long-term goal is to establish a platform capable of launching and recovering small payloads, such as 1U CubeSats.

Approach

  1. Simulation Phase: Develop control laws and attitude dynamics
  2. Hardware-in-the-Loop Testing: Validate the gimbal and control loop
  3. Integration Phase: Assemble avionics and the TVC system
  4. Static-Fire Phase: Perform controlled static tests
  5. Flight Phase: Conduct tethered and free flights

Results

Prototype-1 launched serving as an early systems test to validate propulsion reliability, airframe integrity, and launch procedures.

Gallery

Rocket Assembly Render Initial Prototype Post initial launch test Protoype Electronics