UCC Rocketry and Space Exploration Society: Scaling New Heights

With the surge in interest in space exploration, groundbreaking developments are being made by UCC students to keep Cork at the forefront. The newly-established Rocketry and Space Exploration Society is set to become an official society at the start of next term after months of hard work and petitioning.

As UCC’s newest engineering society, they aim to design, build, and launch rockets, providing real-world engineering experience to all UCC students. The idea took shape 16 months ago between Michael Moynihan, Darren Moynihan, and Leo Healy, leading to the formation of a dedicated engineering group with about 20 members from various disciplines.

Their first rocket, Icarus, was developed with assistance from established rocketry teams in UL and Queens, as well as support from the UCC engineering department. Despite a crash landing in a tree, the launch on February 15 in Waterford was a success, showcasing the group's interest, dedication, and know-how.

Forming the society was challenging, requiring back-and-forth communication and a petition with over 300 signatures. Despite no official UCC funding until next semester, the team is progressing with their next rocket, Prometheus, for the Mach25 competition in Scotland.

Prometheus, almost completed, faces challenges like budget constraints and sourcing components from Italy. 3D printing certain parts proved to be a cost-effective solution, tested successfully on Icarus. The society also focuses on raising awareness about space exploration on campus through talks, newsletters, and potential donations of rocket parts for display.

As the Rocketry and Space Exploration Society prepares for the launch of Prometheus, they are laying the foundation for future rocket enthusiasts at UCC, aiming to establish the university as a hub of student innovation in the aerospace industry.