The American Rocket Company (AMROC) was established in 1985 by George Koopman with the goal of developing space exploration with hybrid rocket technology. Promoting the safety and economical aspects of hybrid motors, AMROC developed several hybrid rocket motors through various partnerships and programs. AMROC's first proposed launch, with Single Engine Test-1 (SET-1), was postponed numerous times and the eventual attempt was not successful. AMROC was eventually crushed by a combination of hardships, including financial difficulties and the sudden death of Koopman due to a car accident. Without Koopman's motivation and leadership AMROC slowly deteriorated. The company did, however, play a key role in the development of hybrid rocket motors. The innovative technology AMROC used is still being used in the development of hybrid rocket technology.

NASM.2006.0047

American Rocket Company (AMROC)

bulk 1987-1995

Scott Sacknoff, Gift, 2006

2.18 Cubic feet ((2 box))

No restrictions on access.

Collection descriptions

Archival materials

Technical manuals

Correspondence

Photographs

Financial records

This collection consists of AMROC's business records. Included here is information on AMROC's various hybrid rocket motor programs and models, including Aquila, Hybrid Engine Analysis and Technology (HEAT), and SET-1, as well as general information relating to hybrid rocket technology. The types of materials present here include: correspondence, articles, press releases, presentations, analyses, reports, programs, agreements, and financial data.

Technical manuals -- 20th century

Correspondence

Photographs

Financial records

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American Rocket Company (AMROC) Records, 2006-0047, National Air and Space Museum, Smithsonian Institution.

National Air and Space Museum Archives