Gru and Vector
Gru and Vector are two mid-powered rockets that were designed, built, and launched with a gimbaled motor system in February 2024. The gimbaled motor involved changing the direction of exhaust flow by rotating the motor on two axes. This allowed both rockets to be actively controlled during flight. Each rocket had different parameters – Gru was longer and used a G12 motor, while Vector was shorter and used an F10 motor. These variations allow us to compare the effects of different motor burn times, thrust outputs, and rocket conditions on the functionality of the gimbaled motor. The components of the gimbaled system were designed and built in-house by students, primarily using 3D printing to manufacture components for various systems. Both rockets launched, and although sustained flight was not achieved due to low thrust-to-weight ratios, correction of attitude was seen during the flight.
Vehicle Timeline
Estimated Launch
Feb 2024
Launch Date
February 3, 2024
Mission Log
Vehicle | Est Launch | Launch Date |
---|---|---|
Live and Let Fly | July 2025 | |
Strange Magic | Oct 2024 | 10/05/2024 |
Fire on High | July 2024 | 07/13/2024 |
Megamind | Feb 2023 | 04/23/2023 |
Gru and Vector | Feb 2024 | 02/03/2024 |
Material Girl | July 2023 | 07/11/2023 |
Mr. Blue Sky | July 2022 | 07/06/2022 |
Rubberband Man | June 2021 | 06/29/2021 |