Firehorn is the EPFL Rocket Team’s inaugural cryogenic bi-liquid rocket, operating on an innovative architecture. Anticipated to embark on its maiden 9km flight in late 2025 as part of the European Rocket Championship Competition, it is designed from the ground up with the constraints of a 30km flight, which should occur during 2026.

• Haut gauche: Nosecone 

Made from CFRP (Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer), the nosecone houses the payload and supports the Acoustic Levitation Scientific Experiment. CFRP provides high strength and low weight.

• Haut Droite: Recovery Bay

Constructed with CFRP, this bay contains the reefed parachute and is designed to handle over 30g deceleration forces.

• Milieu Gauche: Avionics Bay

Built with GFRP (Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer), this section includes omnidirectional antennas and the flight computer for controlling the rocket.

• Milieu Droite: Pressurant Bay

Equipped with a 400-bar COPV (Composite Overwrapped Pressure Vessel) and a Bang-Bang Pressure Regulator to manage pressure during flight.

• Bas gauche: Tanks

Made of 2050 and 2195 aluminium, the tanks are rated for over 60 bar operational pressure. CFRP aerocovers protect external plumbing, and integrated flight cameras monitor the system.

• Bas droite: Internal Structure

The internal structure includes CFRP rods, anti-buckling rings, and 3D-printed interface rings for added support and durability.

• Bas centre: Engine Bay

Home to the 7.5kN Ethanol-Liquid Oxygen engine, this bay features cryogenic-rated plumbing, valves, and CFRP fins. It interfaces with the ground segment for launch operations.