509: NASA Student Launch – Payload (Multidisciplinary Team)

The payload team promoted the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering with our successful launch at the 2025 NASA Student Launch Competition. This yearly event challenges colleges nationwide to design, build and launch a rocket with a payload. NASA changes requirements annually. This year, the payload needed to collect flight data (rocket speed, air temperature and height), transmit data via radio, and keep model astronauts safe. We developed over 100 ideas and used specific strategies to narrow them to a final design.

We chose a small cylindrical capsule placed inside the rocket and attached at the nosecone base. The capsule housed model astronauts and electronics. Our electronic system collected all necessary flight data and transmitted it by radio. We collaborated with the rocket team to ensure the payload fit without affecting performance. 

After finalizing the design, we conducted evaluations to ensure the payload could withstand flight forces. Tests included drop, vibration and load-bearing tests on the mounting system. We also verified electronics—sensors, computers and software—worked under real flight conditions. Each test validated the payload’s readiness.

Using our detailed design process, we successfully built and integrated a payload into the rocket for the 2025 NASA Student Launch Competition.