USC Rocket Propulsion Lab Sets New Amateur Record with Aftershock II Launch
The University of Southern California’s student rocketeers have achieved another milestone in space exploration, launching the Aftershock II vehicle to a record-breaking altitude of 470,400 feet above Earth. This surpasses the previous amateur record set by the Civilian Space Exploration Team in 2004.
Aftershock II, built and designed by USC students, broke multiple records during its October 20 launch from Nevada’s Black Rock Desert. The rocket reached a maximum speed of 3,602 mph, making it the fastest amateur rocket ever launched.
“This achievement represents several engineering firsts,” said Ryan Kraemer, executive engineer of USCRPL and an undergrad majoring in mechanical engineering. “Aftershock II is distinguished by the most powerful solid-propellant motor ever fired by students and the most powerful composite case motor made by amateurs.”
The team’s upgrade to avionics units and other critical systems played a key role in their success. The new paint system performed perfectly, protecting the rocket from hypersonic speeds, while titanium leading edges on the fins prevented fraying.
This achievement showcases USC’s commitment to developing excellence in astronautical engineering, with students who go on to achieve top roles in the space industry and government positions.
Source: https://www.space.com/space-exploration/launches-spacecraft/usc-students-set-world-record-with-high-flying-rocket-launch-video