Summary: The SugarLoki project aims to be the first sugar propellant powered rocket to reach space, as well as to set a record for the smallest amateur rocket to ever reach space.
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The current iteration of its design features a two-stage design heavily inspired by the 'Super Loki Dart' rocket of the late 1960s. It features case bonded, very thin wall motor casings, drag separated staging, and a novel "smart initiator" system for second stage initiation. The current plan is to utilize custom avionics, but the search for a sufficient COTS alternative is ongoing.
Sugar Loki
by Lex Kuehn
CAD Model of SugarLoki Rocket Design
The SugarLoki takes a unique approach in that the motors are designed to be incredibly mass efficient, rather than chasing high specific impulse. The current simulation predicts approximately 110 sec of specific impulse for the first stage with a chamber pressures of ~500psi. The predicted mass fraction for the vehicle is approximately 90%, highly unusual for an amateur rocket. The current motor models put the first stage at an N4724 and the second at an L1714.
Shown below is the current RAS Aero II simulation for the tentative flight, launching from Black Rock.
RAS Aero II Simulation of Tentative SugarLoki Design
An unintended consequence of the incredibly low stage masses and the progressive nature of the burn profile of the motors, is some really incredible acceleration forces towards the end of the upper stage's motor's burn, (predicted to be in excess of 150g's). This has thus-far proven to be a formidable challenge for the avionics needs of the vehicle.
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I will continue to update this article as additional information becomes available on the project.