The Indian Space Team (IST) Rocket Science Division is a specialized collective of engineers and space enthusiasts focused on developing indigenous rocketry and aerospace technology. While often operating as an independent or startup-oriented initiative in the evolving Indian "NewSpace" ecosystem, it mirrors the professional hierarchy seen in national agencies like ISRO.
The division is primarily split into two critical departments: Propulsion and Structure & Designing.
1. IST Propulsion Department
The Propulsion Department is the "engine room" of the organization. Its primary responsibility is to design and test the systems that provide the necessary thrust to overcome gravity and reach orbit.
Engine Research: Focuses on the development of various rocket engines, including solid motors, liquid engines, and potentially cryogenic or hybrid systems.
Fuel & Oxidizers: Engineers here work on propellant chemistry, managing the storage and flow of fuels (like Kerosene or LH2) and oxidizers (like LOX).
Thrust Vector Control (TVC): They design the mechanisms that tilt the engine's nozzle to steer the rocket during flight.
Testing: This department manages static fire tests to ensure the engine can handle the extreme pressure and heat without failing.
2. Structure & Designing Department
This department builds the "body" of the rocket. They ensure the vehicle is lightweight enough to fly but strong enough to withstand the violent forces of atmospheric exit.
Aerodynamics: Designing the external shape of the rocket (fins, nose cone, and fairings) to minimize drag and maintain stability.
Material Science: Selecting advanced materials like aluminum alloys, titanium, and carbon fiber composites to balance strength-to-weight ratios.
Structural Integrity: Using CAD (Computer-Aided Design) and FEA (Finite Element Analysis) to simulate how the rocket will handle vibration, acoustic loads, and thermal stress.
Payload Integration: Ensuring that the satellite or "payload" is safely housed in the fairing and can be deployed accurately once in space.