UK Space Design Competition
Whitchurch High School Takes on UKSDC for the First Time
Last Saturday, twelve of our Year 12 students proudly represented Whitchurch High School in the UK Space Design Competition (UKSDC) – a prestigious event that challenges students to think like aerospace engineers and business strategists. This was our first time competing, and we faced schools with years of experience in this demanding contest. Despite that, our team showed incredible determination and creativity throughout the day.
The competition was based on a realistic industry-style Request for Proposal (RFP) issued by Interorbital Heavy Payload Carriers (IHPC). The challenge? Design a next-generation cargo spacecraft – the IHPC-V – capable of transporting goods across the inner solar system, from Mercury to the Asteroid Belt. The design had to meet strict requirements, including:
- Operating across 0.3–4.0 AU from the Sun.
- Handling up to 17,500 metric tonnes of cargo in standardised CASSSC containers.
- Using advanced propulsion systems (chemical, nuclear thermal, or electric) for orbital manoeuvres.
- Completing turnaround operations within 7 Earth days at orbital spaceports.
- Supporting a small crew (maximum 30) for missions lasting up to 500 days in zero gravity.
- Minimising dry mass to reduce fuel requirements and operational costs.
Students had to address technical, human, and business aspects of the design, including cargo stowage and handling, crew accommodations, propulsion systems, power generation, life support, structural integrity, and cost analysis. They also had to present their solution as a professional 20-slide proposal, backed by diagrams, calculations, and innovative ideas.
The day was intense and long – we left school at 7:45 AM and returned at around 9:00 PM after a full day of designing, collaborating, and presenting. Starting at 8:30 AM with registration and technical briefings, the students worked tirelessly on concept development, technical drawings, and financial models before presenting to a panel of judges. Although we narrowly missed a place in the finals at Imperial College, the judges praised our team’s creativity and professionalism.
This experience was more than a competition – it was a deep dive into the world of space engineering, teamwork, and problem-solving under pressure. Our Year 12s are already planning how to refine their approach for next year, aiming to come back stronger and secure a spot in the finals.
Well done to all involved – you’ve made Whitchurch proud.
