How to Make Air Compressed Rockets

Air compressed rockets can be fun to build and watch in action. Here are some simple instructions for making your very own air compressed rocket. Be aware that some bottles may work better with this project. Always have someone with you, especially if you are a minor. If something goes wrong, you don't want to be alone if you need help.

Things You'll Need

• Empty 2-liter bottle Duct tape Scissors Foam board Air pump Launch pad Super glue

Instructions

1. Clean out the 2-liter bottle and let dry. You wouldn't want anything other than the crucial elements mixing in this bottle before take off. It could ruin the effect of air and water put together. Fill the bottle, when it has dried, about two-thirds of the way full of water and replace the cap.

2. Design the wings and nose cone. You will need to find a design that works best for you and the 2-liter bottle you have. Trace or draw out the design on the foam board. You may find that you'll have to repeat this process several times until you get it just right. When you do get it right, you may want to take some time and decorate it with some color or graphic design.

3. Using scissors, cut out the wing and nose cone design from the foam board. You can use cardboard for this, but foam board tends to be a little sturdier material and is just as light. The nose cone may need to be cut into two pieces and glued together with super glue. If you must do this, then you must also allow it to dry overnight before you move on to the next step.

4. Using one of two methods, you can attach the wings and the nose cone to the bottle. One way to do this is superglue, but the most tried and true method is the use of duct tape. Super glue is more maneuverable, but duct tape can be easier to attach. The nose cone should attach to the bottom of the bottle.

5. Placing the rocket upside down on the launcher, so as not to spill any of the water out, poke a hole just big enough to place the pin of the air pump inside the bottle. This hole should go through the cap of the bottle.

6. Continue pumping air into the rocket until it lifts off the launch pad. How far it flies up will depend on how much pressure from air and water it contained in the bottle.

Tips & Warnings

• If the rocket doesn't work the first time, try modifying designs, the amount of water versus air, etc., until you get the results you're looking for.

• Be sure to stand at least 4 feet away from the air compressed rocket.