Proposal

The team presented and submitted the Request for Proposal Report on September 25, 2024. This report introduced the project mission statement and a proposed design, including descriptions and inspirations. It also included the Gantt chart and a preliminary work breakdown structure. Additionally, the report introduced the team members, outlined team policies and expectations, and established the foundation for the team's dynamics.

Preliminary Design Review (PDR)

The Preliminary Design Review was submitted on November 4, 2024. This report included the decision-making matrices (DMMs) and the resulting designs. It also outlined the current testing plans, as well as the risk analysis and mitigations identified by the team.

Critical Design Review (CDR)

The Critical Design Review was submitted on December 9, 2024. This report showcased the finalized designs for the rocket's components using CAD models and assemblies. It also detailed the current cost breakdowns for each subsystem and the finalized testing plan. Additionally, the report introduced the FMECA and Fault Tree, which explained subsystem-level failures and outlined strategies to reduce their occurrence.

Fundraising

Team Hōkūlele successfully raised $28,727.85 through sponsorships, donations, and fundraisers—surpassing the estimated project cost of $28,965.19 (including a 20% contingency margin). Funding was secured from UH-Mānoa’s College of Engineering, ASUH, Hawaiian Airlines, InSynergy Engineering, Merritt Electric, and others, with additional support from Krispy Kreme Doughnuts and Fiberglass Hawaii. Fundraisers included a Samurai Inc. popcorn sale and a Krispy Kreme campaign. As a result, the team secured all necessary materials and travel funding for the FAR-Unlimited Competition in June 2025, with any remaining funds to be rolled over to support future Team Hōkūlele efforts.

Manufacturing & Assembly

Team Hōkūlele completed the full assembly of its high-powered rocket, designed to reach 25,000 feet for the FAR-Unlimited Competition. The rocket integrates five subsystems: Structure, Propulsion, Recovery, Payload, and Communications. Key accomplishments included fabricating the carbon-fiber-reinforced airframe, assembling the motor and retention system, installing avionics, and integrating a multi-camera payload with water ballast. All mechanical and electrical components were successfully integrated.

Testing

Throughout the spring semester, the team conducted subsystem and full-system tests, including motor static firings, parachute deployments, avionics checks, and payload verification. Real-time telemetry confirmed system functionality and flight readiness. These tests ensured the rocket met all requirements and is fully prepared for launch in June 2025.