Annual Rocket Launch

Please make plans to join us Sunday, November 2 at 3pm in the field outside the Hallelujah Center for Pack 1910's Annual Rocket Launch.

Due to the location of this year's launch, our MC and host for the event, DARS (Dallas Area Rocket Society), has suggested that the only rockets we use should be those requiring a 1/4A, 1/2A and A motors with streamers / not parachutes.  These won't go as high, but we also shouldn't lose as many!  We are trying to keep the launch local as the area we utilized last year is not available due to construction.

For the rocket launch you will need to bring your fully assembled rocket, motors, igniters, pins and wadding. DARS will provide the launch pads.

I have taken the liberty to contact Estes and they suggested something similar to either a Wizard or a Firestreak SST for launching.  The major difference is that with the Wizard, the boys will have to measure, mark and glue the parts together to assemble the rocket and the Firestreak is molded from plastic and simply snaps together (requires no gluing).  The Wizard is pictured here:   and here is a copy of what you get in your kit:

The Firestreak and its kit's contents:

Rocketry may be new to your family and seem somewhat impossible... please don't be intimidated because it is a LOT OF FUN! Hobby Lobby sells rocket kits and you can use an app or download a 40% off coupon as well.  The kits come in a variety of levels of difficulty to assemble.  Some are "RTF" (Ready To Fly), "ARF" (Almost Ready to FLY), "E2X" (Easy to Assemble) and so on.  

Also to note, when we speak of "motors," we aren't talking battery operated engines, we are talking about these guys (pictured right).  These engines come complete with an igniter and pin for each.  So, don't lose the little plastic pieces or the two pronged igniter.  Please be sure to PURCHASE THEM as kits do not include engines since many rockets can be launched by several different engine sizes.  
  
Also pictured is the "recovery wadding."  You will also need this for your repeat launches.



I warn you, however, rocketry can be quite exhilarating!  Bring those cameras....and visit the DARS website for more information on their next public launch.  They have some launches where they shoot off the BIG DOGS!  It's definitely an amazing sight to behold.  

As with all Pack events, this is open to siblings so if brothers / sisters want to launch, they can bring their own rockets, too!