ASTRID: Rocket Engine Development at Our Facility

Space Team Aachen, a student team that develops rockets, satellites, and other space systems, recently tested its current project at our facility: With ASTRID, the team is working on a new hybrid-propulsion rocket for the European Rocketry Challenge (EuRoC) 2026. For the development and testing, engine tests were therefore conducted at the Aldenhoven Testing Center. This allowed important components and systems to be tested and further developed under realistic conditions.

The goal is for ASTRID to reach an altitude of 3,000 meters as precisely as possible. The rocket features a hybrid propulsion system using nitrous oxide and paraffin, which generates approximately 3 kN of thrust and burns for about six seconds. In addition, an airbrake system is designed to help precisely control the flight altitude. A particular focus is on reusability. To this end, the team is developing its own recovery system consisting of a parachute and an airbag. After the flight, ASTRID is designed to return to Earth as safely and controllably as possible. Watch the engine test video on the right.

With its modern testing environment, the Aldenhoven Testing Center offers ideal conditions for testing systems and propulsion technologies. Achieve your goals with us and take your testing to the next level—our team will be happy to advise you!

 

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