Hi Shepherd,
I ran a student group for 6 years. For 4 of that we focused on developing
out test stand and DAQ equipment. We had fired a few biprops with GOX, but
it took us the full 4 years to develop the test stand and equipment for our
only LOX-Kero test. (Which was just a few months ago). I would recommend
going with LOX-Alcohol as someone else mentioned. It should be a really
good challenge, and will be relatively "safe". For our engine, I wasted a
lot of time designing a whole bunch of iterations of regen engines.
Ultimately, we built a really bare-bones 50lbf engine with an uncooled 1018
chamber. This allowed us to test all of our equipment and get some
experience with LOX.
I would also not underestimate the logistical challenge of pulling of a
test safely. I would rather leave a legacy of being overly cautious, then
doing things unsafely. It sets a bad precedent for student groups...
Anyways, if your interested, I am moving out to Boulder, CO, which I think
it is less then 2hrs from the academy if you ever want help. Feel free to
contact me off-list.
Also, congrats to USC!
Well, that's the end of my ramblings...
-Eric
