Our team is composed of undergraduate students from multiple disciplines across campus and is divided into five departments: Engine Development, Propellant Systems, Test Stand, Automation Systems, and Business Development. The engine is designed with a 1.3 mixture ratio (O/F) of Jet Fuel-A and Gaseous Oxygen (GOX), to produce 50 lbf (222N) of thrust at sea level, with a chamber pressure of 60 psig (413.7 kPa).

Founded in 2019, the engine has undergone multiple iterations, presented on the right, with the latest design being established in 2022. The latest design incorporates a coaxial swirl injector made of brass and ablative materials for the internal geometry. The team is currently prototyping and cold flow testing the injector manifold assembly to validate the design and performance, as well as to practice and troubleshoot the pipe routing and sensors that will eventually be implemented in hot fire test.

About Us

What's expected

We have recently started our vehicle integration campaign and are undergoing extensive research to create our first fully reusable liquid rocket engine. This campaign is now being run alongside our liquid propulsion rocket engine that will be undergoing its first Hot-Fire Test by early march.

for the future?

Version 3

2021

Design over the years

Version 4

2022

Version 5

2024

Version 2

2020

Version 1

2019

Project Organization

Loxodon-1 is a multidisciplinary project that serves as the pioneer for rocket propulsion in Puerto Rico. To accomplish a project of this magnitude, the team needs to be well organized and structured to be able to cover all aspects and systems in the project. For this reason, the team's structure is made to resemble that of the industry. The team is divided into the following departments:

Avionic Systems

Aerostructure Development

Fluids and Propulsion Systems

Business Development

Test Stand Deparment

Our primary objective is to develop a cutting-edge proof-of-concept engine that is specifically designed to undergo multiple rigorous hot fire tests. The successful completion of this testing campaign will serve as a crucial milestone, laying the foundation for the development of more advanced and ambitious engine designs in the future. This initiative not only aims to push the boundaries of engineering innovation but also plays a pivotal role in advancing the propulsion and aerospace industry in Puerto Rico. By fostering technological growth and expertise in this sector, we aspire to position Puerto Rico as a key player in the global aerospace landscape, driving both local and international advancements in propulsion technology.

Proof of Concept

Main Objective

Goal

Our mission is to lead the development and execution of Puerto Rico's first liquid rocket engine test and achieve the island's inaugural liquid-propelled rocket launch. This groundbreaking endeavor is a testament to our commitment to innovation, research, and technological advancement in the aerospace sector. By undertaking this ambitious project, we aim to represent Puerto Rico on the global stage at the prestigious Spaceport America Cup, the world's largest Intercollegiate Rocket Engineering Competition. This milestone will not only showcase Puerto Rican engineering talent and capabilities but also open the door to new opportunities in space exploration, propelling the island into the forefront of the aerospace industry. Through our efforts, we seek to inspire future generations of engineers, scientists, and innovators, while positioning Puerto Rico as a key contributor to global aerospace developments.