NASA Student Launch Competition Curriculum

History of Rocketry and Space Exploration: To understand the historical context and evolution of rocket technology.

Newton's Laws of Motion as Applied to Rockets: To understand the fundamental physical principles that govern rocket motion.

Basic Rocket Equation and Thrust Principles: To understand the mathematical relationships that describe rocket performance.

Types of Rockets and Classification: To understand the spectrum of rocket types and where high-powered amateur rockets fit in this spectrum.

Airflow Around Rockets: To understand how air flows around a rocket during flight and how this affects performance.

Drag and Its Effects on Rocket Performance: To understand how drag forces affect rocket flight and how to minimize them through design.

Stability Calculations and Caliber Measurements: To develop the ability to calculate and verify rocket stability for safe flight.

Center of Pressure vs. Center of Gravity: To understand the critical relationship between CP and CG for rocket stability.

Airframe Design and Materials: To understand airframe design principles and make appropriate material selections.

Nose Cone Shapes and Functions: To understand nose cone design principles and make appropriate shape selections.

Fin Design and Attachment Methods: To understand fin design principles and implement appropriate attachment methods.

Material Selection for Rocket Components: To make informed material selections for all rocket components.

Solid Rocket Motors Classification: To understand motor classification systems and regulatory requirements.

Motor Selection Criteria: To select appropriate motors based on rocket design requirements and performance goals.

Thrust Curves and Impulse: To interpret thrust curves and understand their impact on rocket flight profiles.

Motor Retention Systems: To implement secure and reliable motor retention systems.

Parachute Types and Sizing: To select and size appropriate parachutes for rocket recovery.

Dual Deployment Systems: To implement reliable dual deployment recovery systems.

Shock Cord Materials and Attachment: To implement shock cord systems that can reliably absorb deployment forces.

Ejection Charge Calculations: To calculate and prepare appropriate ejection charges for reliable parachute deployment.

Introduction to OpenRocket: To develop proficiency with OpenRocket for rocket design and simulation.

Introduction to RockSim: To understand RockSim capabilities and basic usage for rocket design.

Component Modeling in Simulation Software: To create accurate virtual models of rocket designs for simulation.

Setting Up Simulation Parameters: To properly configure simulation parameters for accurate flight predictions.

Wind and Weather Effects on Flight: To understand and predict how environmental conditions will affect rocket flight.

Optimization Techniques for Altitude: To optimize rocket designs for specific altitude goals.

Analyzing Simulation Results: To extract meaningful insights from simulation results to inform design decisions.

Troubleshooting Unstable Designs: To diagnose and resolve design issues identified through simulation.

Iterative Design Methodology: To implement a systematic approach to design iteration and improvement.

Trade Studies and Decision Matrices: To make objective design decisions based on quantitative evaluation of alternatives.

Documentation of Design Changes: To maintain comprehensive documentation of the design process and decisions.

Design for Manufacturability: To create designs that can be effectively constructed with available resources.

Workshop Safety Protocols: To establish and maintain a safe workshop environment for rocket construction.

Tool Identification and Proper Usage: To develop proficiency with tools required for rocket construction.

Personal Protective Equipment: To use appropriate personal protective equipment for all construction activities.

Material Handling and Storage: To implement safe handling and storage practices for all materials.

Workshop and Field Safety Protocols: To implement effective safety protocols for all project activities.

Cutting and Preparing Body Tubes: To prepare body tubes with precision and consistency.

Reinforcement Techniques: To implement appropriate reinforcement techniques for structural integrity.

Centering Rings and Bulkhead Installation: To install internal structural components with precision and strength.

Surface Preparation and Finishing: To achieve professional-quality surface finishes on rocket components.

Fin Material Selection and Preparation: To select and prepare appropriate fin materials for rocket stability and durability.

Cutting and Shaping Techniques: To cut and shape fins with precision and consistency.

Attachment Methods: To implement secure fin attachment methods for stable flight.

Fillets and Reinforcement: To create strong, aerodynamic fillets that reinforce fin attachments.

NASA Student Launch Payload Options: To understand the full range of payload options available within competition rules.

Evaluation Criteria for Payload Success: To understand how payloads are evaluated in the competition.

Examples of Successful Past Payloads: To learn from successful payload designs from previous competitions.

Requirements Analysis Methodology: To systematically analyze and address all payload requirements.

Defining Scientific/Engineering Objectives: To define compelling scientific objectives that meet competition criteria.

Measurement and Data Collection Principles: To apply scientific measurement principles to payload design.

Experimental Design Methodology: To design scientifically valid experiments for payload missions.

Connecting Payloads to Real-World Applications: To develop payloads with clear connections to real-world applications.

Translating Objectives into Payload Concepts: To develop payload concepts that effectively address scientific objectives.

Evaluating Feasibility of Different Approaches: To evaluate payload concepts for practical feasibility within project constraints.

Size, Weight, and Power Constraints: To design payloads that meet size, weight, and power constraints.

Concept Selection Process: To select the most promising payload concept using objective criteria.

Types of Sensors for Rocketry Payloads: To understand the range of sensors available for payload applications.

Data Acquisition Systems and Methods: To design effective data acquisition systems for payload sensors.

Sampling Rates and Resolution Considerations: To determine appropriate sampling parameters for accurate data collection.

Power Requirements for Electronic Systems: To design power systems that meet payload operational requirements.

Structural Design for High-G Environments: To design payload structures that withstand launch and recovery forces.

Deployment and Actuation Mechanisms: To design reliable deployment and actuation mechanisms for payload operations.

Material Selection for Payload Components: To select appropriate materials for payload components.

CAD Design Principles for Payloads: To create accurate CAD models of payload components and assemblies.

Rapid Prototyping Methods: To create functional prototypes for testing payload concepts.

Testing Prototype Functionality: To verify prototype functionality through appropriate testing.

Iterative Design Process: To implement an effective iterative design process for payload development.

Documentation of Prototype Development: To maintain comprehensive documentation of the prototyping process.

Mounting Systems and Attachment Points: To design secure and functional payload mounting systems.

Center of Gravity Considerations: To integrate payloads while maintaining appropriate center of gravity location.

Vibration Isolation Techniques: To implement effective vibration isolation for sensitive payload components.

Access and Serviceability Design: To design payload systems with appropriate access for preparation and service.

Radio Frequency Basics: To understand the basic principles of RF communication for payload telemetry.

Telemetry System Design: To design effective telemetry systems for real-time data transmission.

Antenna Selection and Placement: To select and place antennas for optimal communication performance.

Range and Reliability Considerations: To design communication systems with appropriate range and reliability.

Onboard Data Processing Techniques: To implement effective onboard data processing for payload operations.

Microcontroller Programming for Data Collection: To develop effective microcontroller programs for payload data collection.

Data Storage and Retrieval Methods: To implement reliable data storage and retrieval systems for payload data.

Post-Flight Data Analysis Approaches: To develop effective approaches for post-flight data analysis.

Electronic Assembly Methods: To develop skills for proper electronic assembly of payload components.

Mechanical Construction Techniques: To develop skills for mechanical construction of payload components.

Wiring and Connection Best Practices: To implement reliable wiring and connection practices for payload systems.

Quality Control During Construction: To implement effective quality control during payload construction.

Software Architecture for Payload Systems: To design effective software architectures for payload control systems.

State Machine Design for Mission Phases: To implement reliable state machines for payload operation control.

Error Handling and Recovery: To develop robust error handling and recovery capabilities in payload software.

Power Management Through Software: To implement effective power management through software control.

Test Plan Development: To create effective test plans for payload validation.

Environmental Testing Considerations: To conduct appropriate environmental testing of payload systems.

Functional Testing Protocols: To implement thorough functional testing of payload systems.

Integration Testing with Rocket Systems: To verify successful integration of payload with rocket systems.

Types of Flight Computers: To understand the range of flight computer options available for rocketry.

Flight Computer Selection Criteria: To select appropriate flight computers based on project requirements.

Key Specifications and Capabilities: To understand and evaluate key flight computer specifications.

Redundancy Considerations: To design appropriate redundancy in flight computer systems.

Battery Types and Specifications: To select appropriate batteries for rocket electronic systems.

Power Requirements Calculation: To accurately calculate power requirements for rocket electronics.

Battery Mounting and Protection: To implement secure and protected battery mounting systems.

Power Distribution Systems: To design reliable power distribution systems for rocket electronics.

Altimeters and Barometric Sensors: To select and implement appropriate altimeters for rocket flight control.

Accelerometers and Gyroscopes: To implement accelerometers and gyroscopes for flight data collection.

GPS and Tracking Systems: To implement reliable tracking systems for rocket location.

Data Logging Considerations: To implement effective data logging systems for flight data.

Dual-Deployment Electronic Systems: To implement reliable electronic systems for dual-deployment recovery.

Ejection Charge Ignition Circuits: To design reliable ejection charge ignition circuits.

Redundant Deployment Systems: To implement appropriate redundancy in recovery electronics.

Failure Mode Analysis: To identify and address potential failure modes in recovery systems.

Failure Mode and Effects Analysis: To conduct thorough failure mode analysis for all critical systems.

Altimeter Programming: To properly program altimeters for flight operations.

Deployment Event Detection Algorithms: To implement reliable event detection for recovery system operation.

Failsafe Programming Techniques: To implement effective failsafe mechanisms in recovery programming.

Testing and Simulation: To thoroughly test recovery system programming before flight.

E-Bay Structural Design: To design functional and robust electronic bay structures.

Component Mounting Techniques: To implement secure mounting systems for electronic components.

Wiring Organization and Management: To implement organized and reliable wiring systems in electronic bays.

Switch and Access Port Design: To design functional and reliable switch and access systems for electronic bays.

Microcontroller Options: To select appropriate microcontroller platforms for payload applications.

Programming Environments and Languages: To select and use appropriate programming environments for payload development.

Hardware Interfaces and Protocols: To implement appropriate hardware interfaces for payload components.

Real-Time Considerations: To address real-time requirements in payload programming.

Sensor Interfacing Techniques: To implement reliable sensor interfaces for payload data collection.

Signal Conditioning and Filtering: To implement effective signal conditioning for sensor data.

Calibration Procedures: To develop and implement effective sensor calibration procedures.

Data Validation Methods: To implement data validation methods for ensuring data quality.

Data Storage Options: To select appropriate data storage solutions for payload applications.

File System Considerations: To implement appropriate file systems for payload data storage.

Data Logging Strategies: To implement effective data logging strategies for payload operations.

Power-Safe Storage Techniques: To implement power-safe data storage systems for payload data.

Radio Frequency Communication Basics: To understand RF communication principles for telemetry implementation.

Telemetry Hardware Options: To select appropriate telemetry hardware for payload communication.

Antenna Design and Placement: To implement effective antenna systems for telemetry communication.

Range Testing Procedures: To verify telemetry system performance through appropriate testing.

Ground Station Hardware Requirements: To implement appropriate hardware for ground station operations.

Data Reception and Processing: To implement reliable data reception and processing systems.

Real-Time Display Systems: To develop effective real-time display systems for telemetry data.

Recording and Playback Capabilities: To implement data recording and playback systems for telemetry data.

Integration of Flight Computer and Payload Systems: To successfully integrate all electronic systems in the rocket.

Power and Signal Isolation Techniques: To implement effective isolation between electronic systems.

Electromagnetic Interference Mitigation: To minimize electromagnetic interference between rocket systems.

System-Level Testing Approaches: To implement comprehensive system-level testing of all electronic systems.

Workshop Safety Protocols: To establish and maintain a safe workshop environment for rocket construction.

High-Powered Rocketry Safety Principles: To understand and apply fundamental safety principles to all aspects of the project.

NAR/TRA Safety Codes: To understand and comply with established safety codes for high-powered rocketry.

Personal Protective Equipment Requirements: To select and use appropriate personal protective equipment for all activities.

Workshop and Field Safety Protocols: To implement effective safety protocols for all project activities.

FAA Regulations for High-Powered Rocketry: To understand and comply with all FAA regulations for high-powered rocketry.

Waiver Requirements and Processes: To navigate waiver requirements and processes for legal rocket launches.

Launch Site Selection Criteria: To select appropriate launch sites that meet all safety and regulatory requirements.

Documentation Requirements: To maintain comprehensive documentation that meets all regulatory requirements.

Documentation Requirements: To maintain comprehensive documentation of pre-launch inspections.

Failure Mode Analysis: To identify and address potential failure modes in recovery systems.

Hazard Identification Techniques: To identify all potential hazards associated with the project.

Risk Assessment Methodologies: To assess risks associated with all identified hazards.

Mitigation Strategies: To develop and implement effective risk mitigation strategies.

Failure Mode and Effects Analysis: To conduct thorough failure mode analysis for all critical systems.

Material Strength Testing Methods: To verify material properties through appropriate testing methods.

Load Testing Procedures: To conduct appropriate load testing of critical structural components.

Structural Integrity Verification: To verify structural integrity of all rocket components.

Documentation of Structural Tests: To maintain comprehensive documentation of all structural testing.

Parachute Deployment Testing: To verify reliable operation of parachute deployment systems.

Ejection Charge Sizing and Testing: To determine and verify appropriate ejection charge sizes.

Shock Cord and Attachment Point Testing: To verify shock cord and attachment point strength for recovery system reliability.

Recovery Electronics Testing: To verify reliable operation of recovery electronics.

Payload Functionality Verification: To verify that payload systems meet all functional requirements.

Environmental Testing Considerations: To verify payload performance under expected flight conditions.

Integration Testing with Rocket Systems: To verify successful integration of payload with rocket systems.

Data Validation Methods: To implement effective data validation methods for payload systems.

Flight Computer Testing Procedures: To verify reliable operation of flight computers.

Power System Verification: To verify reliable operation of power systems under flight conditions.

Sensor Calibration and Validation: To ensure accurate sensor measurements through proper calibration and validation.

Communication Systems Testing: To verify reliable operation of communication systems.

Subscale Model Design and Purpose: To understand the purpose and design considerations for subscale testing.

Test Flight Planning and Execution: To plan and execute effective subscale test flights.

Data Collection During Test Flights: To implement effective data collection during subscale test flights.

Analysis of Test Flight Results: To extract meaningful insights from subscale test flight data.

Full-scale Rocket Ground Testing Methods: To implement comprehensive ground testing of the full-scale rocket.

Fit Checks and Assembly Verification: To verify proper assembly and fit of all rocket components.

Weight and Balance Testing: To verify weight and balance parameters match design specifications.

Systems Integration Verification: To verify successful integration of all rocket systems.

Documentation Requirements: To maintain comprehensive documentation that meets all regulatory requirements.

Comprehensive Pre-launch Inspection Procedures: To implement comprehensive pre-launch inspection procedures.

Checklist Development Methodology: To develop comprehensive and effective pre-launch checklists.

Go/No-Go Criteria Establishment: To establish clear and objective go/no-go criteria for launch decisions.

Documentation Requirements: To maintain comprehensive documentation of pre-launch inspections.

Launch Day Timeline and Procedures: To implement an effective timeline and procedures for launch day operations.

Role Assignments and Responsibilities: To establish clear roles and responsibilities for launch day operations.

Communication Protocols: To implement effective communication protocols for launch operations.

Troubleshooting Common Issues: To develop effective troubleshooting approaches for launch day issues.

Post-Flight Inspection Procedures: To implement comprehensive post-flight inspection procedures.

Data Retrieval and Backup: To implement reliable data retrieval and backup procedures.

Flight Performance Analysis: To conduct thorough analysis of flight performance data.

Documentation for Post-Launch Assessment Review: To prepare thorough and effective PLAR documentation.