High Altitude Rocketry Team

Mission Statement: HART is a student-led aerospace team at Oregon State University, operating as both a volunteer organization and a senior capstone project. Structured into four specialized sub-teams—Aerodynamics, Structures, Propulsion, and Avionics—HART applies OSU’s curriculum and industry tools to prepare students for industry through hands-on engineering experience in rocketry. History: Founded in 2016, HART has evolved from a capstone club into a large volunteer organization and one of OSU’s most advanced aerospace teams. Operating under OSU’s AIAA chapter, HART has designed build and launched increasingly advanced rockets establishing a pattern for success and innovation. To date we have set personal records in rocketry exceeding Mach 2.7+ reaching 65,000 ft in under 90s marking a major milestone in Oregon State’s Rocketry History. Team Dynamics: HART’s mentorship model guides students through all academic levels. Freshmen explore, learn, and observe, while dedicated sophomores lead sub-teams, gaining hands-on experience in systems engineering and coordination. Juniors mentor sophomores, collaborate with seniors on advanced designs, and apply coursework to projects. Seniors coach juniors, fulfill capstone requirements, and lead recruiting and sponsorship efforts. Key roles like Team Lead, Systems Engineer, and Program Director are typically held by experienced juniors or seniors. Current Projects (2024-2025): HART is developing a 15-foot, two-stage solid-fuel rocket designed to exceed Mach 3.3 and reach 100,000 feet with this year’s focus on optimization and refinement for all systems. Future Goals: Following our 100,000-ft mission, HART’s next goal is hypersonic rocketry, targeting Mach 4.5+. Industry Collaboration & Sponsorships: HART is sponsored by Industrial Finishes & PPG and has interest from the Oregon Air National Guard, Blue Origin, and Boeing. We welcome guest lectures, materials, equipment, and funding support.