How to Get Started in Model Rocketry

Many model rocketry enthusiasts find their interests soaring to new heights when they begin to build the model rockets they launch.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Batteries
• Batteries
• Batteries
• Polaroid Cameras
• Polaroid Film
• SLR Camera
• Binoculars Cases
• Camcorders
• Digital Cameras
• Film
• Binoculars
• Binoculars
• Safety Glasses
• Safety Glasses
• Videocassettes
• model rockets - Ionizer Code Red, Astrocam, Shellshocked, Asteroid Hunter

1. Join a local model rocketry club. If you're new to model rocket construction, you can help yourself significantly by finding a mentor.

2. Attend the club's launch days.

3. Check out the model rockets and equipment other members are using.

4. Remember, model rocket kits come in various levels ranging from those for beginners to those for experienced hobbyists.

5. Choose your first model rocket from starter-level kits like the AIM-120, the Mosquito, the Alpha or the Yankee from eHobbies.com.

6. Move on to more complex kits that require you to develop techniques to assemble the motor mount and recovery system and attach the fins.

7. Learn to finish your model rockets with an attractive paint scheme and other trim.

8. Move up to scale modeling. Premier hobbyists research and build models of actual NASA rockets and military missiles.

9. Remember, scale-model rocketry requires extensive research on the Internet and in libraries to discover information from manufacturers and government sources.

10. Attempt to finish out your scale model in the exact design of its full-size counterpart.

11. Prepare yourself to move up to the top rung of the model rocketry hobby by designing and building your own rocket. Many hobbyists do so by assembling multistage or cluster motor rockets.

12. Remember, there are computer programs like RocketSim 4.0 by Apogee that help determine flight dynamics.

13. Remember also that as you move into more powerful rockets that range to higher altitudes, you must comply with flight regulations established by the Federal Aviation Administration.

Tips & Warnings

• A still camera or a video camera helps preserve your memories when you're enjoying your model rocketry hobby.
• Harry Stine, who actually worked as a rocket scientist, and Vern Estes are considered the "Fathers of Model Rocketry." Estes Industries continues to manufacture model rocket kits, which are available through dealers like eHobbies.com.
• Power and average thrust of a model rocket motor can be determined by a two-unit code. A letter from "A" to "G" designates total amount of power, with a "B" rocket being twice the power of an "A." A number following the letter identifies the average thrust. The higher the number, the more thrust - but the more thrust, the less burn time.
• Children need to be supervised carefully when model rockets are being launched and recovered. Simple model rockets can achieve speeds in excess of 100 mph.
• Jury-rigged systems are inherently dangerous since model rockets must rely on a launch guide rod to provide directional control.
• A built-up or populated area is not a good place to launch a model rocket.
• It's common sense to launch only when visibility is good. It's safer, and you can enjoy your model's flight.
• Some states have age limit requirements for purchase of model rocket motors and require launch site permission/permit requirements. Check with your local city hall, fire department or police department.

[jharrod]

on 5/29/2007 I buy in bulk for my classroom - this brings the "cost per student" way below the normal price I would pay retail. Do a search for "factory direct model rockets" or check out bulk suppliers like www.questaerospace.com

on 11/22/2005 Don't give up on flying your rockets in the winter months. If you love your rocket and want it back in one piece, go buy nylon parachutes. They open reliably. Call Al's Hobby in Chicago for Top Flight Chutes. :)