SPONSORS

ESRA is thrilled to welcome back Onshape for the 2026 International Rocket Engineering Competition (IREC) and the return of SpaceNews as a Media Sponsor for IREC.

HIGHLIGTS

ESRA highlighted Jim Jarvis for his hard work as the ESRA Range Safety Officer and Launch Safety Coordinator. Jim’s journey with ESRA began in 2018, when his work with rocketry teams at local universities led him to discover IREC through Andy Berger. He saw how much potential there was in supporting emerging engineers, so he joined ESRA with the hope of helping the next generation of space scientists gain real, hands-on experience while enjoying the process.

Since then, he has collected memories that stay with him, but one stands out above the rest, which was driving away from the 2019 competition with a Turkish rocket tied to the roof of his truck. He still proudly keeps it today. Jim believes anyone who has experienced the joy of rocketry can make a difference by helping others experience it too.

UPCOMING DEADLINES AND EVENTS

2nd Interim Progress Report

The deadline for the 2nd Interim Progress Report is Monday, February 16, 2026 at 5:00 PM CT.
* No late submissions will be accepted.
* Technical issues at the last minute do not extend the deadline.
* Save a copy of your submission for your records.
* A confirmation request can be made by emailing ESRA at media@esrarocket.org.

Monthly Town Hall

The monthly Town Hall is set for Thursday, February 19, 2026 from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM CT. The meeting will be held on Zoom.

2026 Mission Patch

ESRA announced the 2026 IREC Mission Patch, which was designed by Anthony Le Jeune of Team 60 (University College of London). The patch is on this website at https://www.esrarocket.org/documents-and-forms. The image is free for teams to use on their print material, attire, or rocket.

Call for Volunteers

ESRA is seeking On-Site Volunteers for the 2026 International Rocket Engineering Competition (IREC) taking place from June 15th to 20th, 2026, in Midland, Texas. Current volunteer opportunities include Livestream, Registration, Volunteer Support, Safety, Event Operations, and General Media Support. All interested individuals are encouraged to inquire. Learn more at www.esrarocket.org/volunteer-opportunities.