High Power Rocketry Training Program
High Power Rocketry Training Program (HPRTP)
The White Eagle Aerospace High Power Rocketry Training Program (HPRTP) offers an immersive and
comprehensive learning experience in high power rocket flight systems. Designed for high
school and university student teams, as well as professionals in aerospace industries, this program combines classroom instruction with hands-on, in-the-field training. Participants will engage with fundamental rocket science principles while gaining practical experience through real-world rocket flight operations. With customizable courses to meet specific training needs, HPRTP prepares attendees for success in high power rocketry competitions, research projects, and full-scale rocket vehicle operations.
The HPRTP consists of two modules, Principles of Rocket Science (PRS) and Rocket Field Operations (RFO).
Principles of Rocket Science (PRS)
This module provides a foundational understanding of rocket propulsion, aerodynamics, stability, and flight dynamics. Students will explore how rockets generate thrust, navigate through the atmosphere, and maintain control, while also learning about trajectory simulation, recovery systems, onboard technology, and essential safety procedures to ensure successful and secure launches. This module can either be completed on site in a classroom setting, or online.
Rocket Flight Operations (RFO)
This module provides hands-on practical experience in rocket launch preparation, assembly, and flight operations. Students will learn to set up launch systems, install motors and tracking devices, execute launches, and track flight paths. The course also covers data collection and analysis, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of recovery procedures and post-flight performance evaluation. This module is completed on location at a designated launch site.
- Solid Rocket Propulsion – Fundamentals of high power rocket motors and propulsion systems.
- Rocket Vehicle Aerodynamics – Principles governing the aerodynamic behavior of rocket vehicles.
Rocket Vehicle Mass Properties – Analysis of mass distribution and its impact on flight dynamics.- The Earth’s Atmosphere – Understanding atmospheric conditions and their influence on rocket flight.
- Static and Dynamic Stability – Exploration of stability principles to ensure safe and predictable flight.
- Trajectory Simulation – Techniques for predicting flight paths and performance metrics.
- Parachute Recovery Systems – Design and deployment of parachutes for safe rocket recovery.
- Instrumentation Payloads – Integration of altimeters, GPS trackers, and on-board video systems.
- Range Safety – Safety protocols and procedures for conducting rocket flight operations.
1. Introduction to High Power Rocketry
- What is High Power Rocketry?
Why it’s important in education and industry- Safety rules and FAA clearance requirements
2. Classroom Learning: Principles of Rocket Science (PRS)
- Rocket Propulsion: How rocket motors work
- Aerodynamics: How rockets move through the air
- Mass and Balance: Why weight distribution matters
- Atmosphere Effects: How weather impacts rocket flight
- Stability and Control: Keeping rockets on the right path
- Trajectory Simulation: Predicting flight paths
- Recovery Systems: Using parachutes to safely bring rockets back
- Onboard Tech: Altimeters, GPS trackers, and cameras
- Safety Procedures: Making sure every launch is safe
3. Hands-On Flight Operations (RFO)
- Preparing for Launch: Setting up the launch pad and controller
- Rocket Assembly: Installing motors, parachutes, and tracking device
- Video Setup: Installing onboard cameras
- Launch and Flight: Sending the rocket up and tracking its flight
- Recovery and Data Collection: Bringing the rocket back and analyzing flight data
4. Flight Levels and Performance
- Level 1: Basic flights (1,000 to 2,500 feet)
- Level 2: Intermediate flights (2,500 to 5,000 feet)
- Level 3: Advanced flights (5,000 to 10,000 feet)
5. Course Schedule and Format
- Classroom Sessions (PRS): 2.5 to 3 days
- Flight Operations (RFO):
- 4 Flight / 24-Hour Version
- 6 Flight / 32-Hour Version
- Location Options: At your site or a location chosen by White Eagle Aerospace
6. Learning by Doing
- Watch and learn from expert-led flights
- Hands-on practice with preparing, launching, and retrieving rockets
- Review flight data and discuss lessons learned
This course is best suited for individuals who seek to learn how to successfully design, analyze, launch, and recover rocket-powered vehicles of any scale including model rockets, high-power rockets, experimental rockets, and commercial rockets.
General Requirements
- No general requirements
J. Terry White terry@whiteeagleaerospace.com Curriculum Vitae
J. Terry White is the founder, senior advisor and former president of White Eagle Aerospace. His 50 years of professional aerospace experience includes the NASA Space Shuttle Program, NASA X-43A Flight Research Project, and the United States Navy STANDARD Missile Program. During his far-ranging professional career, Terry has served on the engineering technical staff of Rockwell International, General Dynamics Corporation, Hughes Missile Systems Company, NASA Dryden Flight Research Center and Raytheon Missile Systems. In addition, he has served as an engineering consultant to numerous corporate and private aerospace enterprises.
Terry is a subject matter technical expert in the disciplines of aerodynamics, 6-DOF aerodynamics models, aerothermodynamics, hypersonics, flight simulation, and flight testing.
Terry previously served as manager of the Aerodynamics Department in the Guidance, Navigation, and Control Center at Raytheon Missile Systems in Tucson, Arizona. In this capacity, he was responsible for all aerodynamics work performed at the world’s largest tactical missile producer. He concluded his career with Raytheon in 2010 as a Senior Engineering Fellow in Aerodynamics.
Terry has authored more than 180 technical papers on a wide variety of aero-science and aerospace subjects. His teaching credentials include 15 years as an instructor in the Aerospace Engineering Department of the California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, 10 years as an instructor in the professional development program at Raytheon and 17 years developing and teaching technical courses at White Eagle Aerospace. Those who have taken Terry’s courses say that he brings an extensive technical knowledge and uncommon instructional skill to the training environment.
Terry is particularly well-known for his inspiring aerospace history presentations, which are intense, technically relevant reviews of significant events in United States aerospace history. He has lectured extensively on aerospace history topics at the USAF Test Pilot School, the Society of Experimental Test Pilots, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, academia and industry.
Terry and his wife Phyllis reside in Oro Valley, Arizona. They are the happy parents of five remarkable children and the grateful grandparents of nine delightful grandchildren.
We provide on-site short courses for businesses and government organizations. Individuals who wish to attend a course should contact us here.
