Introduction: Test System for Experimental Rocket Flight Computer

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About: I am a student of middle scool and project creator passionate about aerospace engineering, electronics, and programming. I develop experimental prototypes such as rocketry systems, flight control, data acquisi…

Before launching an experimental rocket, it is very important to make sure the flight computer works correctly. Testing sensors and deployment systems during a real launch can be dangerous and expensive. That is why ground testing is a key part of the process.

In this project, I present a Ground Test System for Rocket Flight Computers. This test stand allows you to check how the rocket electronics work, how the sensors respond, and whether the servos activate at the correct moment, all without igniting a motor or performing an actual launch.

The system simulates basic flight conditions in a safe and controlled environment. It includes a vertical structure to hold the rocket, a frame to mount the electronics, and space to connect motors, servos, and wiring. Many of the parts are 3D printed, which makes the design easy to modify and adapt to different rockets.

This test stand is useful for:

  1. Testing the flight computer before launch
  2. Checking that sensors work correctly
  3. Verifying the parachute deployment system
  4. Performing safe and repeatable ground tests

This project is ideal for students, rocketry hobbyists, and anyone who wants to improve the safety and performance of their rocket before flight.

https://youtube.com/shorts/_5O3tY7ZKTw?si=6B3Cy9Fgi0srJC0G

Supplies

Structural Parts

  1. Plywood base (for stability)
  2. Wooden boards or beams (for vertical supports)
  3. Metal brackets or L-brackets
  4. Screws and wood screws
  5. Safety tape (black and yellow, optional but recommended)

3D Printed Parts

  1. Square frame
  2. Circular support ring
  3. Rocket holder / guide tube
  4. Motor mount
  5. Any custom adapters needed for your rocket size

(PLA or PETG recommended)

Electronics

  1. Microcontroller board (Arduino Uno or compatible)
  2. Motor driver shield (L298N, L293D, or similar)
  3. DC gear motor
  4. Jumper wires (male–male, male–female)
  5. Power supply (battery pack or DC power source)

Rocket Test Article

  1. 3D printed or dummy rocket body
  2. Fins (printed or fixed)
  3. Internal space for flight computer and sensors

Tools

  1. Screwdriver
  2. Drill
  3. Hot glue gun or epoxy
  4. 3D printer
  5. Computer (for programming and monitoring data)

Step 1: Prepare the Base

Prepare the base

  1. Cut a sturdy wooden base (70 × 70 cm).
  2. Sand the edges to prevent splinters.
  3. Mark the spots where the vertical supports will go.
  4. Screw the metal brackets to the base.

Step 2: Build the Vertical Structure

Build the vertical structure

  1. Cut two or four wooden slats (60cm in height).
  2. Screw them to the base using brackets.
  3. Check with a square or level to make sure they are perfectly straight.

(This structure simulates the vertical axis of the rocket during flight.)

Step 3: 3D Print the Parts

3D Print the Parts

  1. Print the following parts:
  2. Rocket body support
  3. Clamping rings
  4. Square frame
  5. Motor mount
  6. Adapters according to the rocket's diameter
  7. 8mm carbon tube

Recommended settings:

  1. Material: PLA or PETG
  2. Infill: 20–30%
  3. Layer height: 0.2 mm

Attachments

Step 4: Assemble the Frame and Supports

Assemble the frame and supports

  1. Screw or attach the square frame to the vertical structure.
  2. Place the rings or supports where the rocket will be held.
  3. Adjust the height according to the size of the test rocket.
  4. The system should allow the rocket to be easily removed and replaced.

Step 5: Electronics

Install the electronics

  1. Set up the flight computer or Arduino.

Connect:

  1. Motor controller
  2. Power supply
  3. Secure the cables with zip ties or tape.

Step 6: Test Code

Load the test code

Connect the microcontroller to the computer.

Upload basic code to:

  1. Read sensors
  2. Activate the servo
  3. Send data via serial
  4. Make sure there are no errors.

Attachments

Step 7: Ground Test

Full ground test

  1. Place the rocket on the stand.
  2. Turn on the system.
  3. Run the flight simulation from the code.

Step 8: Settings and Repetition

Settings and repetition

  1. Adjust the code according to the results.
  2. Repeat the tests as many times as necessary.
  3. Document the changes and improvements.

The goal is for the computer to work perfectly before the actual flight.