Aerospace Engineering, EECS / 2026
Aether Rocket
Built a 660mm long model rocket over the summer to learn electronics, coding, stability and aerodynamics.
I decided to start this project to learn more about rockets. I've always been more of an aircraft guy and never really thought about rockets, but after attending a SpaceX event where I got to talk with Kiko Dontchev, the company's VP of Launch, I decided to explore this field a little more before taking upper-level Aero courses. Originally, this rocket (that I named Aether) was supposed to be a Thrust Vector Controlled (TVC) rocket, but due to time constraints, I ended up settling for a fin rocket. I learnt a lot about system and subsystem integration, electronics and hardware, flight computer design, stability and control, and many new simulation methods. Overall, it was such an enriching experience. I got a lot of new technical skills out of it, and it has helped me grow a lot as an engineer. More details about this project in the report attached below!
Full Report
AETHER_Report.pdfOpenThis is a full report with all the details of the design and manufacturing process.
Setup Flight 1
This is the rocket + launch pad setup for the first launch
Flight 1
Video of the first flight ever of Aether.
Post Flight
Post-flight 1 analysis of the Aether showcasing the minor damage sustained.
Setup Flight 2
Aether Setup for the second flight
Flight 2 (drone view)
Drone view of the second Aether flight.
Flight 2 (ground view)
Ground view of the second and final Aether flight (critical damage to the airframe can be observed)
Radio Controlled Launch System Igniter
This was the ignition system, controlled by a remote control with a 20m range for safety.
Nose cone deployment mechanism
First iteration/test of the nose cone opening parachute deployment mechanism.
Full rocket test
Testing nose cone attached to main airframe
Electronics Test
Test for flight computer and servo-actuated nose cone.
Parachute Packing
Parachute Packing on the Nose Cone before Flight 1
Flight computer
Preliminary design of Aether flight computer (no servos included)
Nose Cone Mechanism
Closer view of preliminary nose cone mechanism design.