Conceptual design of an Experimental rocket with Variable Diameter stages: Stability and Effects on the Drag Coefficient

Abstract

This research work describes the conceptual mechanical design of an experimental rocket with varying diameter stages focusing on the stability and effects on the drag coefficient behavior when the middle stage diameter changes in a specific range. Mainly this research will Figure out drag coefficient estimation around the maximum speed achieved according to Stabtraj software (open source) which is widely used to design and perform aerodynamic properties of small rockets. Results show the Static margin to perform global stability and how changes the drag coefficient over the rocket if the middle stage diameter decrease by 20 mm. This kind of study helps us to evaluate and reduce the workspace of small rockets. Moreover, this improvement in space and weight will allow achieving a high altitude for small rockets with similar dimensions just by changing their middle-stage diameter.