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Nitrous/IPA Rocket Test Stand

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Jacob Norris

Project Timeline

Aug 2025 - Current

OVERVIEW

This ongoing project centers on the design, testing, and launch of a 350 lbf thrust nitrous/IPA bipropellant rocket engine. Working with a small team, I lead the testing effort—developing the structural test stand in CAD and validating it through hand calculations, building the electronics and data acquisition system, and contributing to the engine design with a simplified regenerative cooling approach. The project reflects my ability to tackle complex engineering challenges independently, integrating mechanical, electrical, and thermal systems to push toward a successful static fire and eventual launch.

HighlightS

  • Lead static fire test operations, coordinating planning, safety, and execution to move the engine from design to ignition.
  • Design and structurally validate a custom engine test stand using CAD modeling and hand-calculated stress analysis.
  • Build and integrate electronics and DAQ systems to capture live telemetry during engine testing.

SKILLS

CADFluids SystemsPropulsion System TestingElectronicsProcedure Writing

ADDITIONAL CONTENTS

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Jacob Norris

Aerospace Engineering Student & Test Engineer

I am a 4th year aerospace engineering student at UT Austin passionate about test engineering and ground system design. My experience spans internships at NASA and SpaceX, where I contributed to propulsion test operations, hardware certification, and system troubleshooting. In student rocketry, I have led the design and operation of fluid panels, test stands, and data acquisition systems, combining CAD expertise with hands-on integration. I am seeking opportunities to apply this foundation to propulsion test and GSE engineering roles.

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