Friday marked the end of British Science Week with the launch of Tranby Aeronautics and Space Administration's newest rocket. Senior pupils voted on the name 'Firefly' which took to the skies in front of the pavilion this morning. Pupils from Prep to Sixth Form gathered to witness the launch, which was over pretty quickly as Firefly reached speeds of 220mph and a height of 430m.  

Sixth Form pupils simulated, built and launched the new 4” diameter 4.5’ rocket powered by a 4 grain solid propellant motor. It then deployed a parachute to descend gracefully for pupils to retrieve, albeit slightly further than expected! 

This has been a fantastic experience for Sixth Form students Jack, Zarah, Noah, Hannah, Charlie, Harry, Jasper, Tom and Christian who have had hands-on design, analysis, build, test and engineering experience along with providing a fun, enriching and inspiring project.

Pupils plan to add sensors, cameras and other features in the Trinity term. Some have even opted to build their own rockets to earn their level 1 certification in high-powered rocketry.

Here are some videos of the launch: