In our first two articles in this series we discussed aerodynamics of model rockets or more specifically the effect of aerodynamic drag. We covered viscosity, boundary layer, laminar vs. turbulent flow and the reynolds number. In this article we design a model rocket in OpenRocket and analyze the drag of the components. We will also [Continue]
There are a few ways to determine the altitude of your rocket. In a previous article we discussed using inclinometers and trigonometry. In this article we will discuss using electronic altimeters for model rockets to measure the altitude of flights. Using Electronic Altimeters for Model Rockets The most common electronics device carried aboard [Continue]
For those that wish to build customized model rockets without the worry of painting, the Customizer Launch set from Estes Industries is a good kit to choose. The Customizer comes with a multitude of pre-painted easy to assemble parts. There is enough parts for 64 different rocket combinations and up to two customizable rockets. Many [Continue]
We recently had the opportunity to talk about rocketry with a group of future astronauts at the Astronuts Kids Space Club. Through the amazing technology called Skype, I was able to skype-in to their meeting and talk a little bit about rocketry. All from the comfort of the Sigma Rockets shop in Mississauga, Ontario. Lunar [Continue]
Rocket Gliders and Rocket Boost Gliders For the model rocket enthusiast who is looking for a real challenge rocket gliders and rocket gliders are hard to beat. Some will not be familiar with the terms rocket glider and boost glider and what they are and how they work. A rocket glider (Figure 1) consists of [Continue]