Launch Canada Rocketry Association
A prototype reusable semi-cryogenic turbopump for in-space and launch vehicle propulsion capacity building — With the announcement by the Canadian Government in 2023 that it is moving forward to enable space launches from Canadian soil, Canada is poised to expand its capabilities into launch and large-scale rocket propulsion. Enabling this will require expertise in the most complex, challenging aspect of rocket propulsion: the turbopump. The “heart” of any high performance rocket engine, these powerful pumps represent a capability that has never before been demonstrated in Canada. With a network of partners and industry professionals, a team of experienced volunteers, and supplemented by top students from across Canada, this project will demonstrate the first turbopump in Canada, sized for Launch Canada’s proven 1000 lb thrust rocket engine. Leveraging advanced manufacturing methods and cutting-edge software tools, it will also be the smallest turbopump in the world, extending the performance benefits of turbopumps to new applications such as lunar transport or space tugs, while training high