In 2021, 35 students from the universities of Beira Interior and Coimbra formed the Fénix team to build a solid propulsion rocket. Several challenges were faced and we are ready for a new launch in October.
Three years ago, in 2021, a group of 35 students from the universities of Beira Interior and Coimbra met with an ambitious dream: to create the Fénix team, a multidisciplinary Aerospace Engineering team. United by the desire to innovate, this team is dedicated to developing a solid propulsion rocket with an engine designed from scratch to compete in renowned international events.
The Fénix team's journey began with enthusiasm and dedication. Each member brought with them unique knowledge, working tirelessly to design a rocket capable of reaching three thousand meters in altitude, carrying a payload that included a scientific experiment. The culmination of this effort was scheduled for 2022, at the European Rocketry Challenge, organized by the Portuguese Space Agency.
However, two weeks before launch, during a static test, the rocket engine failed. This setback prevented the team from participating in the competition as planned, leaving a feeling of frustration among the members. However, the Fénix team turned this challenge into an opportunity.
Deciding not to give up, they still attended the competition and the Portugal Air Summit 2022 in Ponte de Sor. This experience, although adverse, served as a valuable lesson and an opportunity to grow. The setback allowed the team to reevaluate and improve its systems and subsystems, strengthening its resolve.
After two years of intense efforts and continuous improvements, the Fénix team is now ready for its first launch in October, in a new attempt to achieve success.
The aerospace sector is a field of constant innovation, where challenges are opportunities in disguise and each failure is a stepping stone to success. Our team exemplifies this resilient and pioneering spirit. In a world where space exploration continues to capture the imagination of many, stories like the Phoenix inspire us to look to the stars and believe that, with perseverance and hard work, even the wildest dreams can become reality.
To reach this important milestone, the Fénix team counts on the support of all those who share its vision and passion for aerospace progress.
