For the Bulldog Rocket Clubthe sky is the limit for their 2024 competition rocket design. On Saturday afternoon, the Bulldog Rocketry Club tested their current engine design in preparation for the 2025. Spaceport America Cup Intercollegiate Rocket Competition.

“We are doing our static motor test, which we have to do for the competition we enter every year. This motor test is happening because as a team we make our own motor in order to prove at the competition that it’s safe,” said Anna O’Brien, director of operations for the Bulldog Rocketry Club.

Club members are unlikely to see their work in action due to state-mandated launch restrictions and high costs. Making their motor test a great opportunity to involve the community in one of their big milestones.

“The rocket we build throughout the year reaches 30,000 feet. And because of Minnesota restrictions, there’s no launch site where we can do that here. But this engine test is probably the most important thing we can do in Duluth, and so it’s really great because that way people can come and see what we’re doing,” O’Brien said.

“It brings a lot of people together. I’ve already talked to a lot of people who aren’t from school, who don’t have family or anything here, and they just come out and enjoy what we have to show and enjoy talking to everyone. It gives back to the community,” said Jenna Whiting, director of marketing.

Since the club’s true focus is on rocket science, it is necessary to ensure that their engine is in good condition before the rocket body and other components can be built.

“Now we can just unbox our engine, look at all our data, see how it compares to previous years and everything else, and then make sure there’s no internal structural damage, make sure everything’s okay for a few, our future reuse of our engine during our competition and Then spend more time this year developing more new things that could also improve future engines,” said William Moe, engine manager.

And even with a few hiccups along the way, the test was a resounding success.

“It’s always amazing and rewarding to just put in a lot of effort and then see it get up and running,” Moe said.

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