Dr. Richard Cohn, Chief Engineer of the AFRL Rocket Lab at Edwards Air Force Base, will discuss new concepts in rocket propulsion on Friday, Oct. 14 during the College of Engineering’s first Technical Seminar of the semester.
Cohn will discuss the Integrated Modular Rocket Engine, on-demand solid propellant manufacturing, and new electric propulsion concepts that are currently being explored. In addition, his presentation will touch upon ongoing fundamental exploration work.
The AFRL Rocket Lab has been a center of rocket development for more than 60 years. The lab tested the F-1 engine that powered the Saturn V, proved the feasibility of launching a rocket from an underground silo, proved the concept for the Space Shuttle Main Engine with the XLR-129, and developed the first Full-Flow Staged Combustion engine with the Integrated Power-head Demonstrator.
Cohn received his Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from Michigan State University in 1999. As Chief Engineer for the AFRL Rocket Lab, he has technical oversight for all applied research and demonstration efforts in rocket propulsion for the Air Force.
Prior to serving as Chief Engineer, he worked in the liquid rocket engine area, where he performed basic research in rocket engine injector design and thermal management and provided leadership in contracted efforts such as the Hydrocarbon Booster Technology Development and the Liquid Target Booster Development programs.
The Technical Seminar will be held from 12-1 p.m. in ECS-312.