Monash University’s HiLaunch Powered Rocketry (HPR) team is preparing for a pivotal moment as they get ready to launch their most advanced rocket yet, Project Zenith, on Saturday 8 September. The student-designed rocket is set to reach an impressive altitude of 10,000 feet over the skies near Bendigo, marking a milestone for the team as they push the boundaries of student rocketry in Australia.
Project Zenith, powered by the Solaris MkII hybrid rocket engine, is a testament to years of work by Monash’s students. This hybrid engine—using a combination of solid fuel and liquid oxidiser—was researched, developed, and built entirely by the team. The launch will make history, as it will be the most powerful 100% student-researched and developed (SRAD) rocket ever launched in Australia.
This event is a crucial test for the Monash HPR team as they fine-tune the rocket’s systems and prepare for their competitive debut in June 2025 at the Spaceport America Cup. Held in New Mexico, USA, this competition is the world’s largest intercollegiate rocket engineering event, where the Monash team will compete in the elite “10k SRAD Hybrid/Liquid & Other” category.
Team spokesperson Sudarshan Shorna Kumar, who studies Aerospace Engineering and Commerce at Monash, shared his excitement about the upcoming competition. “We’re excited to be the first Australian student team to enter a rocket in this category, competing against the best universities from around the world,” he said.
Project Zenith carries a range of cutting-edge student-developed systems, including airbrakes that enable more precise control of the rocket’s altitude, ensuring it hits the 10,000-foot target. Additionally, a Gas Operated Deployment System (GODS) will release a parachute to guide the rocket’s descent safely, while new sensors and avionics systems will capture detailed flight data.
The launch will take place at the Victorian Rocketry Association’s Serpentine launch site, located 45 km northwest of Bendigo. This event marks a major leap forward for Monash HPR, as they continue to showcase their engineering talents on a global stage.
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🎓📚 @MonashUni’s #HiLaunch team is set to launch #ProjectZenith, Australia’s most powerful student-developed #rocket, 🚀 on 8 September. Will it reach 10,000 feet? Join the excitement & share your thoughts!💥🇦🇺 #TheIndianSunhttps://t.co/8PAjG01unk
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