Thrust Vector Control
Example of Thrust Vector Control used to land Falcon 9 first stages.
SFU Rocketry is developing a Thrust Vector Control (TVC) system to steer our rocket engines by physically redirecting thrust during flight. This capability is essential for enabling stable flight, active trajectory correction, and controlled landings.
The project begins with a ground-based test platform using a small gaseous monopropellant engine. This early-stage system will allow us to validate actuator performance, control loop behavior, and mechanical reliability under hot-fire conditions. By starting small, we can iterate quickly and develop a solid control foundation before scaling up.
The long-term goal is to integrate a full TVC system with our liquid engines, enabling active flight control and precision maneuvering. This includes selecting and testing high-response actuators, developing real-time control software, and designing gimbals capable of withstanding the dynamic loads of large bipropellant engines.
Completion: Early 2026
