Category Archives: Generally Speaking

Things about the hobby!

Video Camera mounted on Side of Model Rocket

Okay, It’s been longer than I expected to create this next posting…  And yes, I got totally distracted from posting the Missile Launch System (we will get back to it soon).  The BIG distraction was I purchased a 3d printer, the QiDi Technology I Dual Extruder from Amazon.

QiDi Tech I 3d printer
QiDi Tech I 3d printer

Then I spent the last two weeks learning everything I could about designing parts using Autodesk’s 3D design software (123D Design) and printing them in 3D.  Using the software and printer I created a saddle and mount for an old Syma quadcopter camera I had laying around.  I fabricated a control switch and a holder for the Lipo battery.

Syma 2.0Mp video camera mounted on my rocket call Strobee
Syma 2.0Mp video camera mounted on my rocket named Strobee
Camera and on/off switch
Camera and on/off switch
The saddle video camera mount and Lipo battery pack.
The saddle, video camera mount, camera and Lipo battery pack.

On Friday, David Duncan and I went to the launch site and made two successful launches with the Missile Command System and Strobee. The wind was blowing from 9 to 19 mph (as recorded by my on site weather station);  that is why I am holding my hat on.

David Duncan and I Launching Strobee with the camera on and recording.
David Duncan and I Launching Strobee with the camera on and recording.

The first launch I used an AeroTech E20-4W single use motor.  On board is a Jolly Logic AltimeterTwo (which I highly recommend).

Flight Data from Jolly Logic 2
Max Altitude: 443 feet
Top Speed: 112 mph
Thrust Duration: 1.45 seconds
Peck Acceleration: 5.6 G's
Average Acceleration: 3.6 G's
Coast Apogee: 4.8 seconds
Apogee ejection: -0.4 seconds
Ejection Altitude: 440 feet
Descent Speed: 9 mph
Flight Duration: 38.5 seconds

The second launch is with an AeroTech E18-4W  RMS motor.

Snap shoot at 400 feet above the launch site.
Snap shoot at 400 feet above the launch site.

Hello Everyone!

Welcome to my new model rocket blog site.  My plan is to show you the fun and interesting things that I have learned while building rockets.  I have been building and launching model rockets for more than 45 years. I am a system’s engineer and have worked with solid rocket propellant on the Space Shuttle, most of the first-stage long-range missiles and other tactical missiles used for our national defense.   I love using my engineering knowledge and skills to advance this hobby.  I hope to excite you to join me in this great family activity.