Fuel our Future: Support Sustainable Engine Team

Sustainable Engine Team

The MIT Sustainable Engine Team, founded in 2023, is an Edgerton Center student-run group dedicated to advancing sustainable aerospace propulsion and power generation technologies. Our core mission is to design and build a hydrogen-powered engine from first principles, demonstrating the feasibility of zero-carbon emission aviation and power generation while training the next generation of engineers. Our work combines advanced engineering tools, rigorous testing, and collaboration with faculty and industry experts to push the boundaries of clean gas turbine technology.

We are currently building a turbine engine that is fueled by hydrogen. To get there, we must solve real engineering problems including fuel storage and distribution, system safety, and hydrogen embrittlement, which weakens metals exposed to hydrogen. Addressing these issues requires specialized materials, custom-machined parts, and advanced tools for design and testing. The alloys we use, such as Inconel® and HAYNES®, are extremely expensive and hard enough to wear down the end mills needed to machine them. Safe hydrogen handling also demands high-quality protective equipment and sensor systems to ensure that our engine testing is secure and reliable.

None of this work is possible without financial support. We are completely student-run and rely entirely on individuals and organizations to support our work. Funding directly enables progress, since each dollar goes toward the software, materials, machining, and expertise required to move the project from a conceptual design to a working engine.

Our project embodies mens et manus, MIT’s belief in combining theory with practice. It transforms classroom knowledge into hands-on innovation, giving students the chance to develop skills in design, fabrication, testing, and teamwork while pushing the boundaries of what clean aerospace can achieve. Beyond campus, we hope to inspire others to explore hydrogen propulsion and expand the movement toward climate-conscious engineering. Your contribution can be the difference between an idea that stays on paper and an engine that runs. We are deeply grateful for every donation, large or small, and we could not take on this challenge without the generosity of people who believe in our mission.

What is the impact of my contribution?
$50 Contributes to the cost of hardware and safety equipment
$100 Machining costs
$500 Material for 1 component

As a token of our gratitude, supporters will receive the associated thanks:
$50 Instagram shout-out
$100 Add name to website
$200 Spent end mill memorabilia display
$500 Team shirt
$1000 Piece of first generation engine