Blasting Off with Precision for UH AIAA

Cerakote for a Competition Rocket

At IA Coatings, aerospace performance isn’t just a standard—it’s our mission. We recently partnered with the University of Houston’s AIAA chapter to coat their competition rocket, helping them prepare for launch with a finish engineered for altitude, durability, and style.

The student-led team, known as Space City Rocketry, competes in national collegiate rocketry events where every ounce, degree, and micron matters. Their launch vehicle needed a coating that could withstand extreme conditions—UV exposure, heat from aerodynamic friction, and rough handling during setup and recovery. Cerakote was the perfect solution.

Why Cerakote for Rockets?

Cerakote isn’t just for firearms or automotive parts—it’s a high-performance ceramic-based coating ideal for aerospace applications:

• Thermal Resistance: Protects components from the intense heat of high-speed flight.

• Corrosion Protection: Critical for outdoor and field-use aerospace parts.

• Weight Savings: Applies in a thin film without adding excess bulk.

• Color Customization: Enhances visibility and branding with durable pigmentation.

For UH’s rocket, we used a heat-stable Cerakote series in high-contrast red and white, accented with a Texas flag decal—fitting for a team representing the heart of Houston.

Supporting Future Aerospace Engineers

We take pride in supporting the next generation of engineers and innovators. Projects like this allow students to explore real-world materials science, manufacturing practices, and aerospace design with industry-grade tools. By partnering with academic organizations like UH AIAA, we aim to bridge the gap between education and enterprise.

Their rocket is more than a student project—it’s a symbol of what happens when precision engineering meets aerospace ambition.

Looking Ahead

We’re proud to have played a part in this year’s competition run and look forward to seeing Space City Rocketry soar to new heights. If you’re a university or aerospace program looking for high-performance coatings that meet your mission specs, IA Coatings is ready for launch.

Contact us to learn how our Cerakote and advanced materials can elevate your aerospace build.
Check out UH AIAA here!