First liquid rocket engine hotfire at ASU marks historic milestone

The roar of a liquid rocket engine echoed through Arizona State University’s West campus this past spring, as Sun Devil Rocketry, or SDR, successfully conducted the first liquid rocket engine hotfire at the university. This landmark achievement represents years of dedication, innovation and perseverance by a student-led team, propelling ASU into a new frontier of aerospace engineering education and research.

The successful two-second hotfire test produced 300 pounds of thrust, fueled by isopropyl alcohol and cryogenic liquid oxygen. Through the successful test, the team has enabled further exploration in the complex topics of rocket propulsion.

The engine, designed and built from the ground up by the students, utilized a bipropellant system, a method commonly found in orbital launch vehicles. The successful hotfire demonstrated the team’s mastery of critical propulsion principles, including propellant management, combustion stability and thrust generation. This hands-on experience in dealing with high-pressure and cryogenic fluid systems provides invaluable skills for the next generation of aerospace engineers.

Beyond the test

The success of this liquid engine hotfire is a significant springboard for Sun Devil Rocketry. It not only solidifies their capabilities in advanced rocketry but also fuels their plans to complete more hotfire tests and ultimately develop a liquid engine-powered rocket for future launches. This achievement reinforces ASU’s commitment to fostering a dynamic environment where students can turn theoretical knowledge into tangible, impactful innovations, preparing them to lead in the rapidly evolving aerospace industry.

For more information about Sun Devil Rocketry and their projects, visit their official page on the ASU Student Hub or their liquid rocket propulsion project page.