High-powered rocket built by Valley students completes full flight, recovery in Hearne, TX
· KRGV (NBC 5)
Students from the Rio Grande Valley successfully launched and recovered their high-powered rocket, Project Vortex, at Hearne Municipal Airport on August 8, 2026. The rocket ascended to 8,300 feet and achieved a speed of 900 feet per second. After reaching its peak, the drogue parachute deployed, followed by the main parachute at 1,000 feet, ensuring a safe landing. This accomplishment culminated months of effort by participants in the South Texas Astronomical Society's Launchpad program, who designed and built the rocket. The mission highlights significant engineering challenges and marks a successful first flight for the team.
AI summary · Source: KRGV (NBC 5) →
