NDXP

Building the university's first liquid-fueled rocket engine to push Notre Dame aerospace into a brand-new era.

Engine Machining
Our Roots

TAKING ON A NEW Challenge

After winning NASA's University Student Launch Initiative in 2024, our team decided to tackle an even bigger goal. We created NDXP, a dedicated division within our team focused on designing and building liquid-propellant engines from scratch.

This is the most complex engineering challenge Notre Dame students have ever attempted. Our goal is to build, test, and fly our first liquid-fueled rocket at an intercollegiate competition by May 2029.

Target Milestones

Moving from traditional solid motors to liquid propulsion requires step-by-step testing and careful adjustments along the way. Here is how we are turning this concept into a launch-ready vehicle.

MAY 2026

Engine Alpha
Hotfire

Running our initial ground test on the first-generation engine to check fuel flow, ignition reliability, and overall safety systems.

MAY 2027

Engine Beta
Hotfire

Testing an upgraded, lighter engine that uses real data from our first run to improve fuel efficiency and thrust output.

MAY 2027

First Vehicle
Design Finalized

Completing computer models and stress checks for the flight frame, fuel tanks, and electronics bays that will hold the new engine.

MAY 2029

First Competition
Launch

Connecting every subsystem, setting up on the launchpad, and firing Notre Dame's first liquid rocket at a national competition.