We have a collection of interchangeable rocket parts

• 3 nose cones (almost identical)
• 3 cargo (egg) sections
  (2 are 7 inches long and 1 is 5 inches long)
• 2 sustainer stages
• 2 booster stages (to be built)
• 2 parachutes (18 inch and 15 inch)

We launched all three from our platform, and used E9-4 engines.  We also launched some of Mark's rockets (picture to the right).

The winds were from the NW at about 15 mph with higher gusts, from the West.  Temperature was about 40 F.

Launch Site Map

1. We had problems with our parachutes opening and burning.  On launch 1, the parachute did not open because the shroud lines became tangled.  We need to use a better parachute and pack it better.

2. On launch 2 our shock cord burned and separated the sustainer stage from the cargo section.  We need a better way to connect the parts with the shock cord.  We need a sustainer connection cord, to which we tie the elastic shock cord.

3. On launch 3, the parachute burned a one inch hole.  We need a better way to protect the parachute.

4. We need a bigger parachute.  18 inch is a minimum size.  We may want to try a 24 inch with a 2 inch spill hole.

5. We had a suggestion to connect the parachute to the shock cord near the cargo section so the sustainer hangs lower than the cargo section.  That way the sustainer is the first section to hit the ground, reducing the impact on the cargo section.