Robotics and Rocketry?

[Doug G]

Each year in my Physics class, we end our study of mechanics using model rockets where students collect rocket thrust data from Estes engines and model how the rocket will fly using a spreadsheet and all the 2nd law and motion equations. But now that we have become more experienced in the ways of robotics, several students on our team (also in my physics class) wonder about placing a control system inside a rocket and having it autonomously control some fins with servos and such. Obviously I'm hesitant to strap an expensive IFI system and sensors to a rocket that may come crashing to earth, but it would be interesting to see if a PIC, gyro, and accelerometer could be combined to accomplish a crude but effective guidance system.

Aside from obviously being a very tough challenge, has anyone else considered this and do you know of any regulatory challenges in doing such a project?

I am HPR Level 1 certified to fly up through H and I motors, but I don't see any where in NAR regulations that forbid an active guidance system.