I’ve begun working with experienced mentors and ingenious students and lab partnersto explore the development of solid rocket motor propellants—a process that is as complex as it is fascinating. From understanding mixer and cure agent differences to studying how material geometry influences performance, I’ve been learning the many variables that determine a motor’s safety, reliability, and thrust characteristics. While still in the infancy stage for this journey, this research has deepened my appreciation for the intricate balance of chemistry, engineering, and reliability that has come to be expected in commercial applications.

Although my understanding of the different chemicals and