Optimization of Dual-Cryogenic Propellant Collegiate Rockets

The design of a high performance, dual-cryogenic propellant rockets at the collegiate level is a relatively novel challenge, requiring additional considerations beyond those of other liquid bipropellant rockets. Halya is a student built, pressure-fed, liquid-methane and liquid-oxygen rocket developed by Students for the Exploration and Development of Space at UC San Diego (SEDS UCSD) for the FAR-Mars competition. It is designed with an extreme focus on vehicle efficiency. This paper explores the design, integration, and logistics of Halya and how they were affected by the focus on efficiency. It evaluates the advantages and tradeoffs of design constraints, particularly from the perspective of a collegiate team with limited resources. This paper aims to offer insights and guidance for other student teams who are seeking to balance vehicle performance with the time and monetary costs associated with collegiate-scale dual-cryogenic launch vehicles.