Rocketry Lab

High Power Certification Program

Since its inception in 2020, the High Power Certification Program has effectively served as the backbone of the UChicago Space Program (UCSP). Each year, we engage in the intricate processes of building, flying, and certifying rockets to the Level 1 (L1) certification, ensuring that our participants gain essential hands-on experience along with invaluable technical knowledge necessary for their growth.

In collaboration with the Northern Illinois Rocketry Association (NIRA), we leverage their support and expertise to streamline our launching process. Our partnership allows us to access established launch sites, provide safety oversight, and enhance our network of rocketry enthusiasts. We aim to conduct approximately 15 launches per year, providing ample opportunities for our members to apply their skills in real-world scenarios.

As part of our educational initiatives, we host regular build sessions where participants collaborate on rocket construction and experiment with various designs and techniques. During these sessions, members are encouraged to learn and utilize simulation tools such as OpenRocket for flight trajectory modeling, as well as CAD software like Fusion360 for designing rocket components. Additionally, we introduce participants to PCB design, which is essential for developing advanced flight computers used during our launches.

In an effort to further our unwavering commitment to cultivating aerospace talent, we are excited to announce a significant expansion of our program to include Level 2 (L2) certification this year. This new initiative aims to enhance the talent pipeline for our Spaceport America Cup Team, providing participants not only with advanced training but also with unique opportunities to tackle more complex and challenging projects in the field.

Our launches typically occur in the spring when weather conditions are most favorable, allowing for optimal performance and safety during our meticulously planned flight tests. As we continue to enhance our program and offer new and exciting challenges, we remain dedicated to fostering a vibrant community of skilled engineers and innovative thinkers within the ever-evolving aerospace field.

Two people set up a model rocket in a field on a tripod launch pad under a blue sky with clouds. One person is kneeling, adjusting the rocket, while the other stands nearby taking notes.

Advanced Rocketry Program

The Advanced Rocketry Program (ARP) is a versatile rocketry program with the objective of entering and competing in the International Rocketry Engineering Competition (IREC). Currently in the Proof-of-Concept phase, a duel-deploy parachute, commercial and in-house avionics-controlled launch vehicle that will exceed 10,000’ AGL is being built and will launch Q2 2026. In the 2026-2027 academic year ARP will compete in the FAR-UNL rocketry competition, integrating an advanced payload team with the existing avionics and launch vehicle teams. Since 2023, the Rocketry division has also successfully qualified over a dozen students for Level 1 and Level 2 high power rocketry certifications from the National Association of Rocketry.

Young man lying on grass, working on a black and yellow rocket, in a field.

Four people walking on a dirt path in a rural area, carrying large rocket models, with a long irrigation system stretching into the distance against a blue sky with clouds.

A model rocket launching with sparks and smoke, on a grassy field with cloudy sky in the background.

Three young people painting large rockets outdoors using spray paint while smiling and taking a selfie with one of the rockets.

Group of four people working on outdoor fireworks or rocket setup on grass beside a rural road, with farm fields and a large irrigation system in the background, under partly cloudy skies.

A man wearing sunglasses, a red cap with a white 'R', and a brown jacket, using a cordless drill to work on a yellow rocket outdoors against a blue sky with clouds.

A group of people standing outside near a white trailer on a farm field with wind turbines in the background and a partly cloudy sky.