Sheffield Propulsion Lab to power the next generation of aerospace innovation

Made possible through the generosity of The Reece Foundation and a generous alumni donor, the new Sheffield Propulsion Lab (SPL) in Derbyshire will give students and researchers access to specialist testing capabilities that are rarely available within UK universities. The site will also create opportunities for collaboration with institutions across the country, helping to accelerate innovation in aerospace engineering.

The Sheffield Propulsion Lab has been designed to provide advanced propulsion testing capabilities, including horizontal static fire testing, vertical rocket testing, injector testing, and hydrostatic testing. Together, these facilities will enable the safe development and testing of rocket propulsion systems while providing students with invaluable hands-on experience.

The project has been driven by the passion and determination of Sheffield students, who recognised the need for accessible propulsion testing facilities within the UK.

Fintan Cluskey, SPL Testing Lead, said: "My love for rocketry started a few years ago when I joined the University’s student-led rocket team, Project Sunride. Thanks to the support of The Reece Foundation, I was able to go to America with Sunride to launch the UK’s first liquid rocket in 2024. 

Now two years later, I am now working full time at Buxton running the Sheffield Propulsion Lab once again thanks to Reece. The support of both the anonymous graduate donor and The Reece Foundation have defined my University career and I am excited to see the impact that the new propulsion test stand has on both Sheffield and other Universities in the North of England."

Until now, opportunities to test rocket engines have been extremely limited, with only a handful of university facilities nationwide and many researchers relying on expensive commercial testing sites. The Sheffield Propulsion Lab changes that by creating a world-class facility that will be available not only to University of Sheffield students, but also for hire to other universities.

Already, the facility has seen significant testing activity. Student teams have completed more than ten successful horizontal static fire tests, alongside full-stack cold flow tests, hydrostatic testing and propulsion system development, demonstrating the capability and ambition of Sheffield's next generation of engineers.

Helen Alexander-Duncan, Senior Philanthropy Manager, said: "The Reece Foundation has backed our engineering students for 10 years, helping them thrive through student-led societies. Enabling the launch of this state-of-the-art testing facility is an incredible milestone, and we are deeply grateful for their continued vision and support."

The Sheffield Propulsion Lab is set to become a national hub for propulsion testing and collaboration, strengthening Sheffield's reputation for engineering excellence while inspiring the next generation of aerospace innovators.

The project has been made possible thanks to the generosity of an anonymous graduate donor, and The Reece Foundation - an independent charity that helps to promote engineering and manufacturing in the North East of England and improve education in STEM subjects through grants and funding.