Research and development of small hybrid rockets in cooperation with local communities
Kagoshima Hybrid Rocket Research Group（Belongs to Regional Value Creation Center)
Representative: KATANODA Hiroshi
(Graduate School of Science and Engineering (Engineering) Department of Mechanical Engineering Program
Professor
Background and objectives of activities
The Kagoshima Prefecture is the only place in Japan with a space rocket launching site, but prefectural residents are not directly involved. In addition, the number of launches per year at the Uchinoura Space Center is decreasing, and its effective utilization is desired. Therefore, they focused on "hybrid rockets," which can reduce launch costs to one-tenth of those of existing rockets. The development and launch of the hybrid rocket is being carried out in cooperation with engineers from inside and outside of the prefecture and the Kimotsuki town.
Summary of Activities
The Kagoshima Hybrid Rocket Research Association is promoting research and development of a small hybrid rocket (commonly known as the Kagoshima Rocket). There are 34 members (8 corporate members and 16 student members, as of November 2021). The first rocket was launched in September 2019 and the second in December 2020 at Hetsuka Beach in Kimotsuki Town. In the future, they aim to conduct launches at the Uchinoura Space Center and lead the way in private rocket launches in Kagoshima Prefecture.
Expected Benefits
The project will contribute to the development of low-cost small rockets, and if put to practical use, it is expected to revitalize the region by attracting private rocket launches. We also believe that the development of rockets will lead to technical education for students and the promotion of science education for elementary through high school students.