### Rockets

Rocket Unit
Transportation Systems

What is Model Rocketry?

Model rocketry was developed during the "space race" era as an alternative to the amateur rocket activity -- involving metallic airframes and the mixing of dangerous propellants -- that was responsible for injuring and even killing numerous young scientific experimenters.

Model rockets are constructed of much safer materials -- such as cardboard, plastic, and balsa wood -- and are fueled by single-use rocket motors manufactured by professional concerns. These rockets may be flown over and over simply by replacing the used motor with a fresh one. They typically contain a parachute, streamer, or other recovery device that allows them to land gently for later reflight. The modeler need never mix, pack, or work with explosives or propellants.

Today, model rocket kits and motors can be purchased in almost every hobby shop and toy store. Kits are designed for all ages and all levels of challenge, from simple starter kits to complicated scale models. Motor power ranges from "1/4A" (the smallest) to "G" -- enough power to lift a six-foot model and a hefty payload!

Model rockets must be flown in compliance with the Model Rocket Safety Code.

What is a Rocket? Click Here!

Rocket Vocabulary

Apogee:  The highest altitude a rocket reaches during flight.

Center of Gravity:  The point on the rocket where all mass seems to be concentrated.

Constraint:  Limit

Drag:  The force that acts between the object and the fluid and slows the motion of the object.

Dr. Goddard:  The fother of modern rocketry

Ignition System:  Rockets are launched with an electrical launch system and electrical motor igniters.

Liftoff:  Occurs when the amount of thrust is great then the amount of weight of the rocket.

Propellent:  Contains both fuel and oxidizer.

Recovery System:  A streamer or parachute is used so that the rocket returns safely and undamaged and can be flown again. Flame-resistant or fireproof recovery system wadding is also used.

Rocket:  A self-propelled device that carries it's own fuel.

Trust:  A force exerted upon or against and object to move it in a specific direction.

Velocity:  The rate of change of a position along a straight line with respect to time.

Wernher von Braun:  In charge of devloping the v-2 rocket used during World War II.

Parts of a Model Rocket:

Flight of a Model Rocket:

Model Rocket Stability and Motion: