Mini-P 2

Mini-Pioneer 2 is meant as a test platform for a series of optimizations made from the flight data and lessons learned from the launches of both Mini-Pioneer 1 and Pioneer 1. It uses the same 3-4 inch step down construction as it's big sister, Pioneer 2, but is much shorter, and simplfied in design to allow for more close testing of flight critical systems before being implemented onto Pioneer 2.

Flying on a K780 and a K1800, Mini Pioneer 2 was projected to reach an apogee of 15,500ft. This would test a few core systems for future Pioneer flights, such as a redesigned Interstage Coupler, as well as continued testing into modifying commercial motor hardware to adapt it for Head End Ignition(HEI). This paired along with a redesigned Avionics Bay, and better aerodynamic simulations, Mini Pioneer 2 is one of the most technically advanced rockets I've ever built. 

While the initial planned launch of Mini Pioneer 2 was scrubbed due to a motor issue, Mini Pioneer launched a month later on May 26th, 2026. The initial accent was beautifully straight, and the 2 stages separated as planned. However, due to an avionics issue the second stage was not lit, however both stages were recovered. 

Upon review of the flight data, if the flight computers had been functioning as intended, the flight conditions were correct for sustainer igniton, validating the work we had done to improve our flight simulations and fin design. Overall, Mini Pioneer 2 validated many of the design changes I chose to make over the Pioneer-1 series, and gave us confidence heading into the launch of Pioneer 2 in January of 2027