Propulsion and Test - thrust-team.it

Propulsion

We design and optimise the propulsion system - the engine that turns fuel
and oxidiser into the thrust that lifts the rocket off the pad - and we prove it
works, fire after fire, on the test stand.

Δv = v_e · ln(m₀/m_f)

The rocket equation — Tsiolkovsky

PHASE 01

Combustion chamber

Our primary focus is the combustion chamber, where fuel
and oxidiser mix to produce the thrust needed for launch. We
design it to withstand the extreme temperatures and
pressures of combustion while squeezing out every bit of
efficiency, using advanced simulation and test data to push
the limits of what a small-scale engine can do.

PHASE 02

Interstage assembly

We also engineer the interstage that connects the propulsion
system to the upper stages. It has to link stages securely,
transfer flight loads and enable a clean separation -
lightweight, yet robust enough to take the mechanical
stresses of flight. It's what makes reliable multi-stage
operation possible.

PHASE 03

Ground test & validation

Nothing flies until it's proven. We lead the validation of the
propulsion system through rigorous ground tests - building
test stands, monitoring engine performance and analysing
data to confirm the chamber and interstage behave as
designed. Through iterative firing we refine every detail to
meet our safety and performance standards before launch.

Want to light the candle?

Propulsion and Test is looking for students who like
combustion, hardware and the moment the test stand
roars to life.