top of page
ASTRA-AP
100 Km target altitude
Mach 5.3
Two-stage architecture
ASTRA-AP is a two-stage hypersonic research rocket designed to reach altitudes above 100 km.
The project combines advanced aerodynamics, high-speed thermal protection studies, robust recovery systems and in-flight data acquisition.
The goal is to push student rocketry toward the edge of near-space flight.
_edited.png)
The ASTRA-AP project includes a full-scale system test campaign at the Friends of Amateur Rocketry (FAR) launch site in California.
FAR is one of the most emblematic amateur rocketry ranges in the world, used by universities, private teams and experimental aerospace groups to test high-performance rockets in real conditions.
Two-Stage Hypersonic Rocket
Dimensions
-
Length: 3.40 m
-
Configuration: Two-stage rocket
-
Structure: Composite & metallic hybrid airframe
Performance
-
Maximum speed: ~ Mach 5.3
-
Apogee objective: 110+ km
-
Ascent profile: Supersonic → Hypersonic transition
Mission Goals
-
Validating high-altitude flight dynamics
-
Hypersonic aerodynamic behavior
-
Recovery system deployment
-
In-flight data collection
Primary Simulation Tool
Designed to Hold Through the Impossible
Eyebolt
A simple shape with a critical role: linking the rocket to its recovery system. Built to stay locked through vibration, acceleration, and hypersonic ascent.
Structural Base
The hidden backbone of the vehicle. It channels tons of force, keeps the motor perfectly aligned, and ensures the entire recovery sequence starts exactly when it should.
Interstage Structure
A lightweight, aerodynamic link between the two stages.
Engineered to stay rigid through supersonic ascent and release cleanly at booster burnout.
Separation Mechanism
A simple, reliable interface that ensures both stages detach smoothly. Its geometry minimizes drag and resists structural loads during the most intense phase of flight.
Separation Detection
A straightforward mechanical trigger confirms that the stages have fully detached. The signal synchronizes the ignition sequence of the second stage with perfect timing.
Seeing the Mission. Controlling the Mission.
Onboard Camera
Capturing the ascent, separation, and high-altitude flight in real time.
A lightweight wide-angle camera mounted inside the nosecone provides unique footage from the edge of space.
Embedded Electronics
Mission Computer
Sensing Unit
Flight Simulations & Analysis
bottom of page