Discover the World of Rockets with the AQUILO Rocket Team
“In Thrust, We Trust”
Founded in 2014, the AQUILO Rocket Team, is a unique student project from the Aeronautical Engineeringand Luchtvaarttechnolgie programs. The team comprises a group of enthusiastic students who design, build, test, and launch rockets together. Timo van Spelden, a former team manager, explains: "The AQUILO Rocket Team originated from an internship assignment. One of the Aeronautical Engineering students was tasked with building and launching a rocket. This was AQUILO I. The group working on it decided to continue, forming the current student team."
What Does the AQUILO Rocket Team Do?
The AQUILO Rocket Team is involved in designing and building rockets, managing almost everything in-house. "We create almost everything ourselves, except for a few electronic components and parts of the motor," says Timo. "One of our strengths is working with composites. We make lightweight but very strong rockets with excellent performance."
The team develops so-called "sounding rockets," used to conduct experiments in the upper layers of the atmosphere. What makes the AQUILO Rocket Team unique is that they design, test, and build their motors, unlike most other teams that buy off-the-shelf motors.
The Structure of the Team
The AQUILO Rocket Team is divided into five main departments. Each team member contributes to the success of the rocket missions.
The structural department plays a crucial role in building the rocket. They handle the fins, the nosecone, and the rocket's tubes, ensuring the design is sturdy and aerodynamic. These components are made from composite materials such as carbon fibre and fiberglass. These lightweight yet strong materials give the rocket a high-performing structure.
The electronics team deals with all the electronic aspects of the rocket. Both the software and hardware are made by AQUILO. This department ensures that the navigation, sensors, and communication systems work together perfectly. Without their efforts, the rocket would be blind and unable to collect crucial data.
The propulsion department is the heart of the rocket. Their expertise in solid propellant fuels is vital. The so-called fuel "Rocket Candy" is made by the team, making them one of only two rocket teams in the Netherlands to do so. A good motor design and fuel are essential for AQUILO's successful launches.
After the launch, the recovery team takes responsibility. They ensure the rocket returns safely to the ground. Using various parachutes and deployment techniques, they ensure the rocket remains undamaged after launch and can be reused.
Since one year, the team has expanded with a marketing department. This department increases AQUILO’s visibility through social media, the website, and promotional materials.
In addition to the five departments, AQUILO has a safety team. This team safeguards safety during all team activities, both at ASK ’t Harde and during CO₂ activation operations of the recovery system in the Delft region. Team members assess risks and reduce them where necessary when working with rocket technology.
Want to be part of this innovative and enthusiastic team? The recruitment period starts around March, during the third term exams. You must have at least 45 study credits (ECTS) and be available to work at least six hours a week on AQUILO activities. During the exam period, work for AQUILO is not mandatory.
The AQUILO Rocket Team offers a unique opportunity to gain knowledge and experience not typically learned in the classroom. You work on an exciting project and have the chance to participate in open days, networking events, and possibly even a European rocket competition, EuRoC. The team teaches you not only technical skills but also networking, presentation, and professional communication skills.
Interested? Get in touch and discover the world of rockets with the AQUILO Rocket Team!