
Amazing Achievement for Local Rocket Team
In a remarkable showcase of innovation and perseverance, the Akronauts Rocket Design Team from the University of Akron achieved first place in the highly competitive 45,000-foot multi-stage category at the 2025 International Rocket Engineering Competition (IREC). This prestigious event, held from June 9 to 14 in Midland, Texas, saw the team competing against an impressive lineup of 143 collegiate rocket teams from around the world.
Resurgence: A Rocket with Purpose
Their rocket, named Resurgence, is not only an engineering marvel standing 18 feet tall but also a testament to the team’s resilience. The design borrowed elements from a previous project, Project E.R.I.C., honoring the lessons learned from an earlier failure. This year's rocket was powered by a custom propulsion system known as Angry Listerine, and for the first time, included in-house technology such as SRAD composite tubes and TRACE, the team's innovative flight computer.
Technical Triumphs and Team Spirit
On June 13, Resurgence launched successfully, reaching a height of 34,241 feet — a significant milestone for the team, as it marked only the second instance where a rocket exceeded 30,000 feet and was safely recovered. Their hard work paid off, earning them a well-deserved first-place trophy among elite competitors.
Pride and Future Aspirations
The Akronauts' victory not only symbolizes the culmination of hours of dedicated effort but also the collaborative spirit that drives engineering students. Dr. Manigandan Kannan, the team's faculty advisor, emphasized how this achievement exemplifies the pinnacle of engineering education. As the Akronauts look to the future, they're not just celebrating a trophy; they’re inspiring the next generation of engineers in Akron and beyond.
Join in the Celebration!
The Akronauts’ stunning achievement is a point of pride for the Akron community. This triumph demonstrates what can be achieved through hard work, teamwork, and dedication. Stay tuned for their future projects and support the talented students of the University of Akron as they continue to reach for the stars!
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