AG Experimental Rockets

The Experimental Rockets working group deals with the design, construction, and launch of rockets. All of our rockets fly on ballistic trajectories and are equipped with a parachute system for recovery. Sizes range from small kits to several meter long experimental rockets with a flight altitude of several kilometers. The work group is divided into three system groups (SGs):

  • SG Antriebe [Engines]
  • SG Elektronik [Electronics]
  • SG Raketensysteme [Rocket Systems]

In addition to the implementation of our projects within the AG, we also carry out workshops and courses. These include, for example, the P2 certificate workshop in accordance with §27 SprengG as well as the regular student workshop "More thrust, Scotty!" run with schools from the region.

SG Antriebe [Engines]

SG Antriebe deals with the construction of hybrid rocket engines. These usually consist of a solid fuel and a liquid or gaseous oxidizer and thus combine the properties of classic solid and liquid rocket engines. ERIG has long used the combination of HTPB and liquid nitrous oxide (N2O). In addition to the design of the combustion chamber and injector, tasks also include the design of the fluid system, consisting of tanks, valves, and refueling systems. The completed engines are tested on the premises of the DLR Trauen, for this purpose the ERIG has an extensive system of thrust-carrying frames, support equipment, and measuring electronics.

Brenntest%20HYDRA Engine test of HYDRA 4X, 12.03.2019

SG Elektronik [Electronics]

SG Elektronik deals with all electrical systems inside and outside the experimental rocket. These include the flight computer responsible for triggering the recovery system, the camera equipment, power supply, telemetry, and black boxes inside the rocket, as well as the ground station and data connection umbilical to the rocket before launch. Many of the circuit boards are custom-designed and manufactured specifically for their task by SG Elektronik and assembled and tested in the ERIG working rooms.

SG Raketensysteme [Rocket Systems]

The SG Raketensysteme forms the connection between the other two SGs, integrating the propulsion and electronics components into a complete rocket. For this purpose, the structure, which consists of the aerodynamic nosecone and tail as well as tubular main segments, is designed and built. Another task of the SG is the construction of the recovery system, consisting of the parachute(s) and ejection mechanism(s).

After construction is completed, systems are tested at rocket launches in Germany, for which ERIG uses commercial solid-fuel motors. However, in cooperation with the SG Antriebe, larger rockets are also launched using the self-developed hybrid engines. Past launches have so far taken place in Esrange, Sweden as part of the [STERN](https://www.dlr.de/rd/desktopdefault.aspx/tabid -6978/11527_read-26906/) program of the DLR.