Getting Started

What do I need?

Rocket Kits:

Start with Skill Level 1, model kits.... seems logical enough? Start easy, don't get frustrated with something difficult.

Parents need to buy a kit for themselves also. This should be a Parent / Child project, everyone should be building.

It's better to show how, rather than to do it for your child.

Rocket Motors:

Your kit will have a list of recommended motors. Use the LOWEST powered motor suggested for your kit first.

[ “What the heck ... I ain't no wimp... just shove a big old motor up in there and....” ]

Don't be that guy!

Nothing is worse than losing your rocket on the first flight.

Note: More on motors in upcoming posts. ex: How they work, what do all the numbers mean, ect.

Launch Equipment: the basics.

1. Launch Pad assembly. Launch rod, Launch pad, and blast deflector.
   Additionally, a tarp for under the pad is nice to collect debris and make for easy cleanup after the launch activities are over.
2. Launch controller. Safely supplies electricity to the motor's igniter.

These things can be purchased. BUT, I am going to post how-to articles for building your own system very economically.

Also I'll cover a multiple launch pad setups.

Launch Field:

This is the most important and sometimes hardest thing to find. Your launch area must be large enough to safely launch and recover you rockets

Launch Site Dimension

Installed Total Impulse (N-sec)       Equivalent Engine Type        Minimum Site Dimensions (ft.)

0.00--1.25                                     MMX, 1/4A, 1/2A                                      50

1.26--2.50                                                   A                                                 100

2.51--5.00                                                   B                                                 200

5.01--10.00                                                 C                                                 400

10.01--20.00                                               D                                                 500

Note those are the NAR minimums and they are minimum. I try to go at least 1/3^rd bigger.

Always make certain you have permission to use any launch area for Rocketry, know your local ordinances and be certain rocketry is not prohibited.

If you live in an urban or overly developed area (like I do) you may consider launching with a local Rocketry club. Go to NAR.org an see the listing of clubs for launches in your area.

Next post: Build a Basic Rocket Kit.