The Tamkang II rocket reached an altitude of over 7 kilometers yesterday, showcasing Taiwan’s growing aerospace capabilities. The launch successfully tested the rocket’s advanced avionics system and maintained real-time data transmission throughout the flight.
The rocket lifted off at 6:46 a.m. from the Hsu-Hai Research-use Rocket Launching Area in Pingtung County. Tamkang University’s Aerospace Technology Laboratory led the project. Professor Wang Yi-ren, the principal researcher, said the flight lasted 38 seconds from launch to apogee, with 13 seconds of active propulsion.
Professor Wang emphasized that the Tamkang II rocket maintained stable communication under high-speed conditions and intense vibration. He said this performance lays the foundation for future attitude control development.
The team conducted the launch despite northeast monsoon winds affecting the rocket’s ascent over Taiwan’s central mountain range. Professor Ouyang Kwan noted that students gained practical experience in payload integration, avionics testing, and achieving higher flight altitudes.
This launch followed three previous rockets: Tamkang I, Jessie, and Polaris. Each earlier rocket tested propulsion, material strength, and shock absorption. In contrast, Tamkang II rocket focused entirely on avionics performance. The rocket measures 2.22 meters long, weighs 52.3 kilograms, and has a 14-centimeter diameter. It produces 2,765 newtons of average thrust and 26,000 newton-seconds of total impulse.
Professor Hsiao Fu-yuan explained that the lab uses a resin-based nitrate composite solid propellant, which provides enhanced stability and safety for instructional launches. TKU has validated its engines through multiple test firings and was selected by the Taiwan Space Agency to develop the standard engine for this year’s Taiwan Rocket Cup.
Experts say the Tamkang II rocket’s successful flight reflects Taiwan’s advancing aerospace research and enhances student training opportunities. Future tests aim to refine avionics systems and achieve higher altitudes while strengthening Taiwan’s aerospace expertise.
