Project Hub /Robotics & Autonomous Systems/Motor Drivers & Motion Control/Open Source Model Rocket: Design and Simulation

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INDUSBOARD

Project Specific

6 – 12 Hours

Partial Kit

Open Source Model Rocket: Design and Simulation

This project covers the assembly, electronics integration, flight computer programming, and testing of an open-source model rocket with active fin stabilization.

Originally published on ElectronicsForU

View original tutorial

Parts You'll Need

This project is sourced from another site, not written by us — this list is our best match of their components against what we stock, not a verified bill of materials. Always check the original blog (linked above) for the actual parts list before buying.

TowerPro SG90 Mini Servo – 180 degree Rotation – Standard Quality Rs. 179.00
400 Points Mini Solderless Prototype PCB Breadboard High Quality Rs. 89.00
MB102 Adjustable Breadboard Power Supply Module (3.3V & 5V) for Arduino & Raspberry Pi Rs. 139.00
Jumper Wire 10 Pin Male To Male 20cm Rs. 45.00
Jumper Wire 10 Pin Male To Female 20cm Rs. 45.00

Selected: Rs. 0.00

We don't carry yet: Pipes / Tubing / Hose / Fittings
Header Pins / Terminals / Connectors
Other Dev Board (Indusboard / Maixduino / misc)
Nose cone
Aerodynamic fins
Model rocket engine
Nose weight (steel

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How It Works

This open-source model rocket system integrates mechanical aerospace design with embedded motion control for active flight stabilization. The physical airframe consists of a body tube, nose cone, launch lug, and three aerodynamic fins, balanced using a steel or lead nose weight and powered by an Estes C6-5 model rocket engine. Flight control and actuation are managed by the IndusBoard Coin running custom flight computer and stabilization firmware. During flight, the onboard microcontroller processes sensor data to evaluate the rocket's attitude and trajectory. When corrective action is needed, the flight computer adjusts the micro gear servo motors connected to the movable fins, dynamically altering aerodynamic forces to keep the rocket stable along its vertical flight path. Prior to launch, trajectory predictions and structural parameters are modeled and verified using the OpenRocket simulator software.

Why Build This

Bridge theoretical aerospace engineering concepts with hands-on embedded systems implementation.

Develop practical experience in closed-loop control systems and real-time servo actuation for dynamic atmospheric flight.

Gain comprehensive end-to-end prototyping skills by combining CAD/simulation tools, custom flight software, and hardware integration.

Real-World Application

Used for understanding aerospace vehicle design, flight dynamics, active stabilization systems, and sounding rocket telemetry for atmospheric research.

Skills You'll Learn

Aerodynamic modeling

Flight simulation

Servo motor actuation

Closed-loop control systems

Embedded firmware development

Sensor data processing

Safety Precautions

Exercise caution when handling model rocket engines, igniters, and launching rockets in safe, designated open areas.

Technology Tags

MODEL ROCKETRY

AEROSPACE

FLIGHT COMPUTER

PID TUNING

SERVO CONTROL

WI-FI TELEMETRY

OPENROCKET

3D PRINTING

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of the OpenRocket simulator software?

It is used to model the rocket's aerodynamics, stability, and estimated altitude prior to physical construction and flight.

How do the micro gear servo motors stabilize the rocket?

The servos dynamically adjust the position of the aerodynamic fins in response to signals from the IndusBoard Coin flight computer to correct deviations in flight.

Why is a nose weight required?

The steel or lead nose weight shifts the center of gravity forward relative to the center of pressure, which is essential for aerodynamic stability during flight.

Gallery

This page is part of Kitkraft's Project Hub — a curated collection of electronics & robotics projects gathered from the maker community to help students and hobbyists discover and learn to build. Kitkraft does not claim authorship of the original project, and makes no representation as to the accuracy, completeness or safety of third-party source material. The summary and "How It Works" explanation above are AI-generated, rewritten with reference to the original tutorial — not a reproduction of it. Full credit and a direct link to the original source are provided above. If you're the original creator and have a concern about how your work is represented here, please contact us and we'll address it promptly.

Kitkraft Project Hub — curated from the maker community, credited at the source.

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