Longhorn Rocketry Association
Paavani Rai is an accomplished leader in aerospace and engineering, currently serving as President of the Longhorn Rocketry Association since August 2021. In this role, Paavani oversees a team of over 100 individuals focused on rocketry and space exploration, leading innovative projects in launch and propulsion systems. Additionally, Paavani has contributed as Chief Engineer for Propulsion Systems and Experimental Team Lead, developing small experimental projects for upcoming rocket launches. Paavani also holds the position of Systems, Design and Integration Engineer at EcoCAR EV Challenge, involved in enhancing a baseline evaluation for the Cadillac Lyriq, and has previously worked as a Research and Development Intern at Siemens. Educationally, Paavani is pursuing a dual Bachelor's degree in Computational Science and Aerospace Engineering at The University of Texas at Austin, building on a foundation in Engineering Science from R.A.N. Public School.
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Longhorn Rocketry Association
The Longhorn Rocketry Association is a student-run organization at the University of Texas which designs, builds, and tests high-power rockets. Through this, we aim to provide hands-on experience with industry-standard design processes, fabrication techniques, and testing and launch procedures. Our current long-term goal is to send a rocket to 100,000 ft using only in-house designed components, including ground systems, the propulsion system, airframe, payload, and all other electronics. In service of this goal, our team participates annually in the Spaceport America Cup, an international competition held in Truth or Consequences, New Mexico. The LRA's main bodies are the four permanent technical teams: electronics, propulsion, ground systems, and flight systems. A team lead directs each permanent team, and the Chief Engineer coordinates the progress and systems integration of the individual sub-groups. Ad-hoc teams may form to investigate a particular subject area not currently covered by one of the four permanent teams and operate similarly to a permanent team during their lifespan. The management officer team ensures that the LRA runs smoothly, handling monetary, communications, and other project management tasks. In addition to ensuring that club members follow safe practices during day-to-day tasks, the safety officer oversees the certification group program.