Orange Coast College is excited to announce the launch of its innovative Rocketry Science program, a new addition to the Department of Aviation Sciences. The program, tentatively scheduled to offer formal courses in Fall 2026, focuses on providing students with hands-on experience in designing, constructing, testing, and launching both solid- and liquid-fueled rocket systems.
To kick off this new venture, OCC invites the community to the Rocketry Science Open House on Tuesday, December 2, from 5 to 8 p.m., located near the Technology Annex.
During the Open House, attendees will have the opportunity to:
- Take guided tours of the Rocketry Science Laboratory and project workspaces.
- Attend a presentation honoring visiting engineers from various Apollo missions.
- Engage in an industry-led discussion panel focusing on local aerospace trends.
- View displays of student-built rocket hardware, including engines, recovery systems, and avionics modules.
- Meet faculty, industry partners, and students from the program’s inaugural cohort.
- Receive information on enrollment opportunities, internships, and transfer pathways in aerospace and propulsion sciences.
- Enjoy a complimentary dinner provided by an In-N-Out food truck, along with live music and entertainment.
The Rocketry Science program aims to bridge the gap between classroom theory and real-world aerospace practices, preparing students for careers in fields such as propulsion engineering, space flight operations, and aerospace manufacturing technology. The specialized curriculum includes courses in Solid Fuel Rocketry, Liquid Propulsion Systems, Rocket Design and Development, and a Capstone Flight Project.
The newly developed Rocketry Science Laboratory and classrooms at the Technology Annex will serve as a hub for propulsion testing, fabrication, and system integration, supporting instruction and fostering innovation in rocket design. The facility will not only benefit students but also contribute to faculty research, industry partnerships, and community outreach initiatives.
“We are thrilled to provide our students with a unique hands-on experience in rocketry and connect them with professionals in the field,” says Stanley Harriman, Aviation Sciences Program Coordinator and Professor. “This Open House is a wonderful opportunity for the community to explore the exciting world of aerospace education and innovation at OCC.”