In this episode of DIY Radio Control Hobbies, host Chris Chianelli delves into the world of model rocketry. Included is an introduction to model rocketry, instructions for building a beginner-level rocket and tips for launching your creation.
Model Rockets Though the majority of model rocketry doesn't technically fall within the category of radio-controlled hobbies (there are some that utilize radio control for post-launch flight and recovery), it is a closely related and highly developed hobby that continues to grow.
- Model rockets are available in a wide range of styles and sizes, from a 7-foot-tall inflatable model down to mini-models that are only a few inches. The ones shown in our demonstration are all made by Estes (TM), a premiere manufacturer of model rockets that has been in business for more than forty years.
- Some of today's rockets are available as ARL ("almost ready to launch") models, and require a minimum of assembly and preparation.
- The Sizzler (TM) from Estes (figure A) is a skill-level 1 model, meaning that it is very simple to assemble and launch.
- In all, there are three skill-levels in model rocketry, level 1 being the simplest, level 2 being intermediate, and level three being the most advanced.
- The KnightWing (TM) has a delta-wing (figure B) so that, following launch, it can glide back down for landing. Other more advanced wing-based models from Estes offer radio control for controlled re-entry.
- The Red Stone (TM) is a model that is a replica of the rockets used in the Mercury space program.The Sky Writer (TM) is an easy-to-build rocket made to look like a pencil.
- The StormCaster (TM) is an excellent beginner rocket from Estes, and is the one built in later segments.
- More advance models, from skill-level 3 category, include the Echo Star (TM) and Commanche (TM). The Echo Star has a booster rocket and second stage, while the Commanche is a high-flying three-stage rocket (figure C).
- The Freaky Flyer (TM) is a functional model (figure D) that's only about 3 inches in length.
Model Rocketry Basics Safety Alert: Model rocketry is an enjoyable hobby for the whole family, but it's important to follow all safety precautions. For younger hobbyists, rockets should be built launched only under adult supervision.
- Following are some of the basic components of the typical rocket engine:
- At the base of the engine is the clay nozzle. The burn of the fuel flows through this nozzle at high velocity, thereby channeling the thrust that launches and propels the rocket.
- The layer above the clay nozzle is the propellant -- the material that burns and creates the thrust. This layer is show in red in (figure E).
- The next layer is the delay charge and tracking smoke -- the material that burns during the coast phase of the flight, letting out a stream of smoke so that the rocket can be located and retrieved more easily. This layer is show in blue in (figure F).
- The next layer is the ejection charge, which blows out the parachute which allows the rocket to fall slowly to earth. This layer is show in yellow in (figure G)
- The final and uppermost layer is the clay retainer cap which holds the propellant and other layers in the contained space.
Flight Sequence The flight sequence of a model rocket includes the following six phases:
- Electronic ignition or liftoff
- Acceleration or thrust phase
- Coasting and tracking (figure H)
- Apogee -- the highest point of the flight.
At this point, the parachute is deployed. - Recovery
- Touchdown (figure I)
RESOURCES :
Model rockets by Estes
Estes Industries
Penrose, CO 81240
Phone: 719-372-6565
Email: www.estesrockets.com
Handbook of Model Rocketry
Model: 0471593613
Author: G. Harry Stine
John Wiley & Sons
Somerset, NJ 08875-1272
Phone: 732-469-4400
Fax: 732-302-2300
Email: compbks@wiley.com
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