Development of a new engine launched the UWindsor Rocketry Team to success in the Spaceport America Cup, placing second among the 10 Canadian universities in the competition.

A record 122 teams from around the globe made the trek to southern New Mexico to test their technical prowess, June 17 to 22.

The Windsor team of about 45 students from diverse disciplines including engineering and business tackled every aspect of the project: construction of the main body, airbrakes, fins, propulsion, avionics, test flight and operation, and project management and finance.

Entered into the category with a target elevation of 10,000 feet, its entry reached an altitude of 10,372 feet, and was recovered with no damage for a finish of 27th overall.

Engineering major Alessia Pernasilici, the team’s vice-president, credited work on its first-ever fully student-designed hybrid engine.

“Since last summer, we’ve been engaged in extensive research and development, particularly in motor creation — a significant challenge our student research and development team has tackled head-on,”

Beyond its commitment to fostering the next generation of industry leaders in aerospace and rockery, the team provides opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience and develop essential skills while building lasting friendships.

Spaceport America executive director Scott McLaughlin called the competition a world-class event thanks to the passion of thousands of students from around the world.

“Being able to directly impact the future members of the space and aerospace workforce is something we are proud of,” he said. “We can’t wait to see the growth opportunities which await our organizations in 2024.”