HYBRID AEROSPIKE ROCKET ENGINE 

Hybrid rocket engines combine solid fuel with liquid or gaseous oxidizers, offering enhanced safety, thrust, and cost-effectiveness. An aerospike nozzle, with its unique shape, improves performance by maintaining efficiency across various altitudes, making it ideal for atmospheric and space applications.

Aerospike nozzles have been increasingly popular in the rocket industry.  it is scientifically proven to produce more thrust reliably at most altitudes, with a smaller size than conventional nozzles (eg. bell nozzle), and a smaller chance of failure due to the lower chamber pressures which reduces the chances of explosions.

The hybrid engine will use ASA (Acrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate) as solid fuel and gaseous oxygen / nitrous oxide as the oxidizer. ASA, chosen for its high melting temperature and slow burn rate, extends thrust duration. The fuel, 3D-printed in a cylindrical design with a central hole and four slots for better oxygen contact, measures 50.5mm in diameter with a 20mm hole. Gaseous oxygen supports combustion. The ASA is housed in a stainless steel casing, sealed with bolts and a 0.04mm gap for an airtight seal, with an Aerospike nozzle attached at one end.