Overview
Rocket Numero Uno is our family’s first attempt at designing, printing, and launching a real rocket from scratch. The project combines CAD design in Autodesk Fusion, 3D-printed structural components, off-the-shelf motors, and eventually custom electronics for flight instrumentation.
Goals
- Design a flyable rocket body in Fusion 360
- 3D print and assemble the rocket using PLA or PETG
- Successfully launch and recover the rocket at a local field
- Add simple telemetry or a flight computer in a future phase
Phase 1: CAD, Print, and Launch
The first phase focuses on getting something in the air. We’re keeping the design simple:
- A single-stage rocket with a 29mm motor mount
- Nose cone, body tube, and fin can designed in Fusion
- Recovery system using a parachute
- Painted and assembled by the whole family
Phase 2: Instrumentation (Planned)
Once we have a successful flight under our belts, we plan to add:
- A small flight computer (likely a Featherweight or custom Arduino-based board)
- Accelerometer and altimeter logging
- Optional GPS for recovery assist
- Possibly a small onboard camera
What We Want to Learn
- How to design rocket components that are structurally sound and aerodynamically stable
- The hands-on process of 3D printing functional parts under real-world loads
- What a successful rocket recovery system looks like
- Basic rocketry safety and launch site etiquette
Next Steps
- Finalize nose cone and fin can design in Fusion
- Test print fin can at 50% scale to verify fit
- Source motor and motor mount hardware
- Choose a launch site and check local regulations
- Full print and assembly
- Launch day!