I will try to keep up to date links of all the available online tutorials I will use to develop my skills for this project.
Particle Effects
Rocket - http://www.3d-tutorial.com/model_a_rocket_with_particle_trail_in_maya-619.html
Zbrush
Basics - http://www.pixologic.com/zclassroom/homeroom/tutorial.php?lesson=beginner
Texturing Workflow - http://www.jcappelletti.com/z3tut02/
Zbrush to Maya - http://www.pixologic.com/docs/index.php/ZBrush_To_Maya_Displacement_Guide#Generating_a_Displacement_Map