2026 IREC

Congratulations to the Selected Teams for the 2026 IREC!

The Experimental Sounding Rocket Association (ESRA) eagerly anticipates collaborating with you over the next eight months.

Announcement Highlights:

• This announcement will be celebrated across all of our social media platforms and our Official Discord Channel.

For Teams Not Selected:

• We recommend exploring other competitive opportunities in your region to prepare for the 2027 IREC. Teams in regions such as Latin America, Australia, Canada, Europe, Turkey, Algeria, Portugal, Korea, India, and Mexico have gained valuable experience through events like the Latin America Space Challenge, Launch Canada, Technofest, the Argonia Cup, and Euroc. In the U.S., consider participating in the Argonia Cup or events at the Friends of Amateur Rocketry (FAR) site in Southern California.

• We strongly encourage you to:

• Join monthly ESRA Town Halls.

• Attend the 2026 IREC as an ESRA Volunteer. Volunteering offers access to team tents and, in some cases, launch pads, providing a firsthand learning experience.

• Attend the 2026 IREC as a spectator. Spectators can interact with teams during conference days and at the launch site.

• Watch all ESRA Training Videos.

• Explore the history of IREC, including previous livestreams, to understand what reviewers and judges seek.

Common Reasons for Application Declines:

• Insufficient application detail or incorrect/missing data.

• Lack of team experience to safely design, build, and launch a rocket in the specified category.

• Failure to adhere to the IREC Rules and Regulations and DTEG.

• Missing Flyer of Record or lack of Tripoli L3 certification.

For Competing Teams:

• Stay updated via the ESRA Official Discord Channel and our social media platforms. Quick responses to announcements will ensure your team's full preparedness.

• International teams requesting formal VISA Acceptance Letters should contact general.info@esrarocket.org.

Upcoming Event:

• Join us for the November ESRA Town Hall on Thursday, November 20th at 7 PM Central. Bring your questions regarding Progress Report I and entry fees.

June is only eight months away. Begin designing, building, and testing!

- The ESRA Team