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

  • Image of Alejandra García Frías

    Alejandra García Frías

    Propulsion Engineer
    Joined in 2025

  • Image of Marc Horta Valls

    Marc Horta Valls

    Propulsion Engineer
    Joined in 2025

  • Image of Natasha Buiting

    Natasha Buiting

    Propulsion Engineer
    Joined in 2025

  • image Rik Douma

    Rik Douma

    Propulsion Engineer
    Joined in 2025

  • Samuel Braun

    Propulsion Engineer
    Joined in 2023

  • Yannis Neofytos

    Advisor & Chair of Safety Committee
    Department Head 23-24

  • Oleksii Makovii

    Propulsion Engineer
    Joined in 2023

  • Chris Derks

    Propulsion Engineer
    Joined in 2024

  • Inas Haddouch

    Advisor
    Department Head of 2024-25

  • Juliette Bakels

    Propulsion Engineer
    Joined in 2024

  • Kamila Czyzycka

    Propulsion Engineer
    Joined in 2024

  • Pedro Alves

    Propulsion Engineer
    AQUILO IX Taskforce member
    Joined in 2023

  • Tayne Dunn-Parrant

    Propulsion Engineer
    Joined in 2024

  • Tijmen Vloet

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