A SYSTEM IN THREE PARTS

The biggest challenge we find when talking to educators about model rockets is simply this: Most educators simply do not feel that they have the "core competency" to use model rockets in their classroom, club or program. True, all this discussion about "kits" and "launch controllers" and "safety codes" could make anyone think 'wow - sounds like fun but I'm just not sure I have the time to learn all this!" The reality is that model rocketry is really a simple and safe activity that - once you've launched your first vehicle into the sky - you'll think "why didn't I do this before?".

Three parts working together.

The rocket that you may see fly high into the air is just one part of the model rocket system. This system is remarkably unchanged after nearly 50 years (and 500 million flights) and understanding how the different components of this system work is the key to your first successful launch. The model rocket system has three parts:

The model rocket (often called a model rocket "kit" prior to being built) is comprised of a paper-wound fusilage (or "body tube"), fins, a nose-cone and some type of "recovery system". The model rocket is designed to be re-usable. Sure, you may eventually need to replace the recovery system (usually a parachute or streamer), or fix a broken fin, but with a little luck and good care, the model rocket can be flown over and over for hundreds of flights.

The model rocket engine (or "motor") provides the thrust needed for flight. Model rocket engines are not like fireworks - they do not use a "fuse" to ignite. Rather, the model rocket engine uses a small two-wire object called an "igniter". The job of the igniter is to convert the electrical coming from the controller into the heat energy needed for ignition. Engines and igniters are usually sold together and are what we call "consumables" - they are completely used during the flight and so must be replaced each time you want to fly the model rocket.

The model rocket launch system consists of a launch pad, battery and a launch controller which is used to send an electrical current to the igniter - thus lighting the motor and sending your model rocket into the blue sky above. The launch system is re-usable and should provide years of service.

A great way to understand how this system works is to study Quest's Model Rocket Flight Events Diagram.