VLFS for N-Prize

     We finally have a first drawing of our rocket for N-Prize Race. Its preliminary design is just to help us to improve its aerodinamics.
     Together with VLNS, we are calculating a better trajectory for VLFS (Fempto-Sattelite Rocket Launcher in Portuguese). But, due to some N-prize rules, we must to reduce costs. So, we are planning a ballistic trajectory with minimum control system.
      This procedure implies in a low precision satellization but allow to keep launch cost below £999,99. Even with this simplification, our calculation show launcher capable to put about 50g in a 800km (SMA) orbit. Therefore, will be necessary to put about 35g of weight in upper stage to achive request orbit with a 15g satellite.
     But, for us, the biggest challenge is to keep sattelite mass between limits. Unfortunatelly our recent design (transmissor only) was weighting above 40g. Send at least 9 orbit comprovation at about 800km will be our biggest achievement.

      Soon as possible, we will show some drawings and static tests.

N-Prize

     After a few weeks without posts, we're back. And with a great news. Our group is participating on N-Prize competition.

     We still working in our VLNS, but in break times we're projecting a very small and cheap rocket to reach Earth orbit with no more than £999,99.

     We're making a few simulations to decide stage mass, ignition point and orbit insertion, to low cost and achieve desired performance.

     We will launch this rocket (VLFS or Fempto-Satellite Launch Vehicle, in portuguese) on ground and in a launch rail (just like sounding rocket). I'ts preliminary design is showing about  327kg loaded and divided in 5 Stages. We still need to optimize its 1st and 2nd stage. 3rd, 4th and 5th stage will be tested soon.

     While that, our main project (VLNS) is growing. Now we're working in a control system plataform to improve its confiability.

     This year we hope to test a few components.