Propulsion department
The propulsion department is responsible for the propulsion systems of our rockets, as well as the pyrotechnics involved in separation events. Their work ensures that every launch is powered by a reliable and efficient motor, designed to meet the specific needs of each in-house developed rocket. The team’s tasks include researching, designing, simulating, manufacturing, and testing rocket motors to push AQUILO’s capabilities even further.
Like every department, the Propulsion Department consists of a department head, members, and advisors. Given the complexity of propulsion systems, their workload is primarily theoretical—focused on extensive research, calculations, and simulations. However, they are also responsible for the hands-on manufacturing and rigorous testing required to bring these systems to life.
Emma Oberlé
HEAD OF PROPULSION DEPARTMENT
Contact
E-mail: propulsionaquilo@gmail.com
Phone: +33 7 66739692
Hi!
My name is Emma Oberlé, I am from France. I am currently a second-year student in aeronautical engineering, and I am the head of the propulsion department for the year 2025-2026.
Since my youngest age, I have been fascinated by rockets, aircraft which led me to study in the aeronautical field. Being part of Aquilo is for me an incredible opportunity to increase my knowledge in the field of rocketry and I hope to contribute to inspiring the next generation of space enthusiasts.
This year, my department and I will focus on making AQUILO IX rocket ready for EUROC 2026 through testing the propellant and finalizing documentation – work that would not be possible without the support of our sponsors and previous heads of the department. In parallel, we will also work on liquid propulsion systems through research, design, and manufacturing. In my role, I also value the importance of teamwork and leadership, and I am happy to distribute tasks among members to ensure that everyone is participating in our goals. My team and I look forward to pushing the boundaries of our department and contributing to the success of Aquilo Rocket Team.
DEPARTMENT MEMBERS
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Ioannis Neofytos
Advisor & Chair of Safety Committee
Department Head 23-24 -

Tijmen Vloet
Propulsion Engineer & Safety Committee member
AQUILO IX Taskforce member
Joined in 2024 -

Juliette Bakels
Propulsion Engineer
Joined in 2024 -

Tayne Dunn-Parrant
Propulsion Engineer
Joined in 2024 -

Chris Derks
Propulsion Engineer
Joined in 2024 -

Kamila Czyzycka
Propulsion Engineer
Joined in 2024 -

Samuel Braun
Propulsion Engineer
Joined in 2023 -

Oleksii Makovii
Propulsion Engineer
Joined in 2023 -

Pedro Alves
Propulsion Engineer
AQUILO IX Taskforce member
Joined in 2023 -

Alejandra García Frías
Propulsion Engineer
Joined in 2025 -

Natasha Buiting
Propulsion Engineer
Joined in 2025 -

Marc Horta Valls
Propulsion Engineer
Joined in 2025 -

Rik Douma
Propulsion Engineer
Joined in 2025 -

Inas Haddouch
Advisor
Department Head of 2024-25 -

Timo van Spelden
Alumni
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Jondar Hoenselaar
Alumni
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Thomas Tchakerian
Alumni
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Sebastian Hudak
Alumni
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Lars Jansen
Alumni