HOW DO MODEL ROCKETS WORK?
Quest
Model Rockets fly by using a small single-use motor/engine which provide thrust. They return to the ground using
a recovery system (either a parachute or a streamer) which ejects from the top of the model mid-flight.
We often call model rocketry "science in minature" - that's because the same aerodynamic and physical principles that guide the flight of a US Navy Harpoon Missile come into play during the launch of a
Quest Harpoon model rocket (see the comparison below).
Instead of using on-board computers to regulate flight, the model rocket relies on the motor/engine to regulate height, time in the air and deployment of the recovery system. To learn more about
flight events why not download some of the FREE Flight Events Diagrams available from
Quest's Resource Central
A detailed explaination covering the basics of model rocket can be found in Section 2.0 - Model Rocketry Basics in Quest's
Model Rocket Boot Camp.
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WHAT IS THE "MODEL ROCKET SAFETY CODE"?
The Model Rocket Safety Code (MRSC) is a clear, easy-to-follow set of rules which provides a 'common sense' framework to working and launch model rockets.
The MRSC is a great tool to teach students about basic range safety practices. Revised and published each year by the
National Association of Rocketry, the MRSC has been a key element in the incredibly good safety record the sport has amassed over the last 50 years.
The MRSC is available as a FREE download from Quest's Resource Central
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How can I tell HOW HIGH my Quest model rocket went?
If you're seeing a model rocket fly for the first time then you're usually saying "wow!". Invariably, the next question is "How high did that thing go?"
It's actually pretty easy to estimate
the height of a model rocket's flight using a tool called an
"inclinometer". Quest has an awesome (and FREE) set of
DIY Inclinometer plans that will help you build your own! There's also a free set of curricula and materials that will teach you how to use it correctly!
And remember: an inclinometer can be used for lots of things other than model rockets. Why not get outside the classroom for a while and estimate the height of that big oak across the street? Or a building? We would be interested to hear what YOU measured with your new inclinometer - why not drop us a line and let us know?
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I've never flown a rocket before...?
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How do I ... ?
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