This past March, Level 2 & 3 Rocketry students tested and launched a variety of rockets and motors. You can watch highlights on our YouTube channel.
Level 3 students made and tested their own rocket motor formulas. Students worked in pairs and made 3 different formulas; 5%, 7%, and 9% Aluminium (the “fuel” part of the motor). The goal was to make a motor that out performed an off the shelf Aerotech motor. They tested their motors in two groups. Motors were put on test stands that had pressure sensors on them to judge engine performance. One group went to Lake Pillsbury and the other group to Ukiah on top of a mountain. We then took the motors and flight tested them at Misfit Flats in Silver Springs Nevada just outside of Reno. Each rocket had electronics so record speed, altitude, G-force to use as their data. They compared their data to the Aerotech pre-made motor.
Level 2 students built their own rockets. They were testing fin stability. Each pair used a different sized fin (same fin geometry). Lg, med, and small. To qualify their data, each rocket had a video camera attached so they could judge stability of flight. All three rockets made two flights with two different motors again, at Misfit flats in Silver Springs Nevada.
All rockets and motors successfully flew and a good time was had by all on a beautiful day in Nevada. Parent involvement was greatly appreciated as we transported 16 High Powered Rocketeers to the dry lake bed. We met at Piner at 4:30 am and arrived back at 9:15 pm that night. Tired but happy crew.
