The sky was the limit for nearly 30 aspiring scientists and engineers who participated in the second annual Arkansas High-Powered Rocket Workshop, held June 9–12 at Southern Arkansas University. The week-long event ended with the successful launch of nine student-built high-powered rockets at SAU’s Laney Farm.
Sponsored by a $30,000 grant from the Arkansas Space Grant Consortium (ASGC), the workshop was led by Dr. Abdel Bachri, dean of SAU’s College of Science and Engineering. The event brought together high school students, college undergraduates, teachers, and professors from across the state for an intensive, hands-on aerospace experience.
Working in interdisciplinary teams, participants progressed through the full engineering design cycle. Using OpenRocket software, they simulated their rocket designs before moving into fabrication—machining parts in SAU’s engineering shop, cutting fins with CNC and laser tools, and 3D-printing custom components. Each team built a parachute recovery system, installed rocket motors, and integrated onboard video cameras and flight recorders equipped with altimeters. Students also studied rocket propulsion and safety principles and worked toward Level 1 certification.
“This workshop represents the very best of STEM education,” said Dr. Bachri. “Thanks to ASGC and NASA, we’re not just inspiring future engineers—we’re launching them.”
The final launch day was a thrilling capstone. For many students, it was their first time witnessing—and engineering—a rocket launch. Teams took their rockets home after successful deployment and safe return.
