Rec.models.rockets (r.m.r) is a Usenet newsgroup created for discussions and topics related to model and high-power rocketry. The purpose of this newsgroup is for the exchange of information between anyone wanting to build, fly, or use model rockets or high power rockets. These are viable alternatives to amateur rocketry. The term "model rocket" is defined based on non-metalic structural components, weight, propellant and total impulse restrictions, electrical ignition, recovery devices, and factory-made, solid propellant engines. The term "High power rocket" refers to any rocket using model rocket technology (as described above) except without the weight, propellant, and total impulse restrictions of model rocketry. Amateur rocketry, pyrotechnics, rocket motor-making, and "EX" rocketry are related topics that fall outside of the scope of this newsgroup.
This FAQ (list of Frequently Asked Questions) is an attempt to compile a number of questions and suggestions that have been repeatedly posted to r.m.r into a single, quickly readable document. This document was NOT meant to be a 'how to' on any form of non-professional rocketry It's hoped that it might be of use in answering some of the more commonly asked questions, summarizing some good tips and suggestions, and directing the reader to other documents, books, sources, etc., where more information may be found. The FAQ has evolved into something monstrous (and very informative). For this reason, only this introduction and the first three sections of the FAQ will be posted biweekly. The entire FAQ will make its appearance on r.m.r. monthly.
This FAQ is organized as a list of primary topics (see the Table of Contents below) with a number of questions and answers under each. The majority of this document deals with, but is not limited to, consumer rocketry in the United States and Canada.
This entire 14 part FAQ is copyright (c) 1996 - 2002 Wolfram von Kiparski, editor. Portions of this FAQ may also have additional copyrights. Everyone is permitted to copy and distribute verbatim copies of this FAQ, provided that you conspicuously and appropriately include on each copy an appropriate copyright notice, including those portions of the FAQ that have additional copyright notices. Changing, editing, or otherwise modifying this FAQ by any means, manual or mechanical, for redistribution is not allowed without written permission from the editor of this FAQ. Distribution of this FAQ for profit, promotional, inclusion as "content" on an ecommerce website, or other commercial use is not allowed without written permission from the editor of this FAQ. -------------------------------------- POSTING FREQUENCY
The entire FAQ is posted to rec.models.rockets every month. A shorter version comprised of this Introduction and Sections #1, #2, and #3 are posted every two weeks or so.
-------------------------------- ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
This document was originally compiled (with help from many others) by Buzz McDermott and Jack Hagerty. This document is now maintained and edited by Wolfram v.Kiparski with help from others. This FAQ would not be possible without the constant flow of tips, suggestions, and sound advice from the readership of rec.models.rockets. Comments, corrections and suggestions for additions are welcomed and encouraged. Please send your suggestions to:
or send them to the editor of the portion of the FAQ for which you have a comment. The FAQ editors are:
Part 01: Wolfram v.Kiparski (rmr...@n2netmail.com) Part 02: Wolfram v.Kiparski Part 03: Wolfram v.Kiparski Part 04: Wolfram v.Kiparski Part 05: Wolfram v.Kiparski Part 06: Wolfram v.Kiparski Part 07: Wolfram v.Kiparski Part 08: Bob Kaplow (Robert_Kap...@hccompare.com) Part 09: Andy Eng (a...@houston.rr.com) Part 10: Wolfram v.Kiparski Part 11: Wolfram v.Kiparski Part 12: Wolfram v.Kiparski Part 13: Canada: editor needed Australia: editor needed United Kingdom: Darren J Longhorn (darrenlongh...@yahoo.com) New Zealand: editor needed Germany: Oliver Missbach (omissb...@web.de) Italy: Luca Benassi Part 14: Wolfram von Kiparski -------------------------------------------
***** PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING *****
Many of the tips and suggestions included in this FAQ include references to particular companies and/or products. Opinions expressed are those of the submitters. Several submitters have asked that readers do not request the company names and addresses from them. PLEASE refer to Part 2 of the FAQ or a recent issue of one of the rocketry magazines. Check this FAQ first.
----------------------------------------- TABLE OF CONTENTS REC.MODELS.ROCKETS FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
###PART 01: GENERAL INFORMATION
1.1 What, exactly, is a 'model rocket' versus a 'high power' rocket? Where do liquid fueled and homemade rocket motors fit in? What about amateur rockets? 1.2 NFPA, FAA, DOT, ... Who are all these organizations and how do they affect the rocketry hobby? 1.3 What is the current legal status of model and high power rocketry in the U.S.? 1.4 I would like to get into Large Model Rockets. What are my options? Who has NAR certified E, F and G motors today? 1.5 Is the proper term rocket 'engine' or rocket 'motor'? 1.6 What do the letters and numbers on a model rocket motor mean? 1.7 What is a CATO? Is it CATO pronounced KAY-TO or CAT-O? 1.8 When a consumer rocket motor fails (i.e., CATOs) does it explode or detonate? 1.9 Why don't I just make my own model rocket motors? Shouldn't I be able to custom-make better, more powerful motors at a cheaper price?
### PART 02: NAMES AND ADDRESSES
2.1 National rocketry organizations 2.2 Rocketry manufacturers and suppliers 2.2.1 Model and High Power Rocket Manufacturers kits/motors/supplies/etc. 2.2.2 Electronics/Recovery Systems/Other Rocketry Components and Supplies 2.2.3 Miscellaneous suppliers of raw materials, supplies, and equipment 2.2.4 Mail Order Vendors 2.2.5 Sources for Out-of-Production Model Rocket Kits 2.2.6 Books/Videos/Computer Software/Technical References 2.2.7 International (outside U.S.A.) rocketry sources 2.3 Rocketry books 2.4 Rocketry magazines
### PART 03: ROCKETRY ON THE INTERNET
3.1 How do I get to the r.m.r archive site? 3.2 What is available from the r.m.r archive? 3.3 How do I upload files to the r.m.r. archive? 3.4 I have read-only access to r.m.r. Is there any way I can still post articles to the newsgroup? 3.5 What are some neat rocketry web pages to check out?
### PART 04: BORN-AGAIN ROCKETEERS
4.1 What the heck is a BAR, 'Born Again Rocketeer'? 4.2 I have been out of model rockets for many (i.e. <nn>+) years now. What been happening in the hobby over the past couple of decades? What's new? What's gone? 4.2.1 Who's Left, Who's Not & Who's New 4.2.2 Changes in Motor Technology 4.2.3 Competition 4.2.4 High Power Rocketry 4.2.5 Electronics Advancements 4.2.6 Regulations, Regulations, Regulations 4.3 Are my old rocket kits worth anything today? 4.4 Where can I find plans of old kits?
### PART 05: MODEL ROCKETRY
5.1 Can I legally fly model rockets in my state? What are the restrictions? 5.2 When do I need to notify the FAA before flying a large model rocket? 5.3 I have a son/daughter that is (less than 9) years old. Is this too young for model rocketry? If not, are there any tips for helping to keep their interest in the hobby? 5.4 Is there any way I can buy model rocket kits, parts and engines at less than full retail? 5.5 I've had a large number of motors CATO recently. The engines are only about 2 years old. I've had them stored in my (attic/garage/basement). 5.6 Is it safe to use my old rocket engines from <nn> years ago? 5.7 What's a good way to find other rocket enthusiasts in my area? How can I found out about local rocket clubs? 5.8 Are the Aerotech composite motors the same size as Estes/MRC/Quest motors? 5.9 Can I use Aerotech or other composite motors in my Estes rockets? 5.10 Will my Estes launch system work with Aerotech composite motors? 5.11 Can I use Aerotech composite motors as boosters in my multi-stage rockets? 5.12 How can I tell the age of my Estes motors? 5.13 Are reloadable model rocket motors shippable the same as disposable model rocket motors? 5.14 My flying field is so small I keep losing my rockets. What can I do? 5.15 Are Jetex engines still available? Where can I get them? 5.16 BT-20, BT-50, BT-55. What the heck do the numbers mean on Estes body tubes? Is their any special meaning in these numbers? 5.17 I've seen mention of all kinds of rocket motor types and sizes. Could you give a
Rec.Models.Rockets FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions): PART 1 OF 14
GENERAL INFORMATION
This portion of the r.m.r FAQ is maintained by Buzz McDermott, at bmcde...@ix.netcom.com. Comments, criticisms, suggestions and corrections for this section should be sent to that email address.
1.1 What, exactly, is a 'model rocket' versus a 'high power' rocket? Where do liquid fueled and homemade rocket motors fit in? What about amateur rockets?
'Model', 'high power', 'advanced', and 'amateur' are all terms which have many definitions, depending to whom you are speaking. In r.m.r., and in the FAQ documents, the definitions (if any) accepted by the NFPA, National Association of Rocketry, and Tripoli High Power Rocketry Association are used. If these definitions conflict the NAR definition is used.
'Model rockets' are rockets that conform to the guidelines and restrictions defined in the NFPA 1122 document. These rockets weigh less than 1500 grams, contain less than 125 grams of total fuel, have no motor with more than 62.5 grams of fuel or more than 160 NS of total impulse, use only pre-manufactured, solid propellant motors, and do not use metal body tubes, nose cones or fins. One inconsistency with this is the CPSC definition of a model rocket motor, which by their definition must contain no more than 80NS total impulse. NFPA document 1127-94 contains the most complete definition of a model rocket and the model rocket safety code. This is the same safety code as adopted by the NAR.
'Large Model Rockets' is a term used in the FAA FAR 101 regulations. It refers to NAR/NFPA model rockets that are between 454 and 1500 grams (1 to 3.3 pounds) total liftoff weight or contains more than 113 grams but less than 125 grams of total fuel.
'High power rockets' are rockets that exceed the total weight, total propellant or single motor total impulse restrictions of model rockets, but otherwise conform to the same guidelines for construction materials and pre-manufactured, commericially made rocket motors. High power rockets also allow the use of metal structural components where such a material is necessary to insure structural integrity of the rocket. High power rockets have no total weight limits, but do have a single motor limit of no more than O power (40,960NS maximum total impulse) and have a total power limitation of 81,920NS total impulse. NFPA document 1127-1985 contains the most complete definition of a high power rocket and also the high power rocketry safety code. This safety code has been adopted by both the NAR and TRA. Metal bodied rockets are allowed by NFPA 1127 where metal is required to insure structural integrity of the rocket over all of its anticipated flight.
'Amateur' rockets covers all other non-professional rockets that do not meet the criteria for model or high power rockets. This includes metal bodied rockets, liquid or hybrid fueled rockets, and rockets with any type of homemade rocket motor.
'Experimental' rockets is an ambiguous term. In the early 1980's it was used (reportedly coined by the magazine 'California Rocketry') to describe rockets that exceeded the model rocket limit at that time (1 pound total liftoff weight and no motor above F power). More recently, it has been used by the Tripoli Rocketry Association to describe the class of rockets that use pre-manufactured solid or hybrid rocket motors but that do not qualify as high power rockets. This includes metal bodied rockets and those with more than 80,000NS of total power.
'HPR-lite' is not any type of 'official' rocket designation but has been used to refer to rockets that exceed the old NFPA model rocket limit of 1 pound but still qualify as NFPA model rocket under current guidelines. These rockets typically use E through G power and are built with much the same techniques as high power rockets. This term originated in the internet 'rec.models.rockets' newsgroup. It should be noted that this term refers to legal model rockets, not any type of high power rocket, and might therefore be misleading to many. The term 'Large Model Rocket' should be used instead.
Another term that has no formal definition but is more and more being used in the literature is 'hobby rocketry'. This term includes both model and high power rockets, but excludes amateur rockets. The term 'consumer rocketry' has also been used, and means the same thing.
The term 'non-professional rocketry' encompasses all forms of model, high power and amateur rocketry.
Finally, the editor of this document wishes to get on his soapbox for just one moment and add the term 'stupid rocketry' to cover all those who attempt to casually produce their own rocket fuel and/or motors without the benefit of very serious study, and implementation, of the processes involved and safety measures required. Especially note that this comment is NOT aimed at serious amateur rocketry organizations, college level research, etc. End of soapbox. ------------------------------------------------- 1.2 NFPA, FAA, DOT, ... Who are all these organizations and how do they affect the rocketry hobby?
DOT (Dept. of Transportation) regulates shipping of rocket motors and reloads. CPSC (Consumer Products Safety Commission) regulates what may and not be sold as a 'consumer' items at the retail level. FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) is responsible for airspace control and regulates flights of rockets that exceed 1 pound and enter FAA regulated airspace. NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) makes recommendations for use of non-professional rocket motors. Although the NFPA only makes recommendations, most state and local laws concerning the use of model rockets are based, at least in part, on NFPA recommendations; especially NFPA 1122. The NFPA also has a draft definition and safety code for High Power rockets, NFPA 1127. BATF (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms) has responsibility for regulations concerning storage and use of explosives. This agency has taken a recent interest in looking into how high power rocket motors are stored and used. ATC (Air Traffic Control) You must notify the nearest FAA ATC center prior to flying Large Model Rockets or High Power Rockets. ------------------------------------------------- 1.3 What is the current legal status of model and high power rocketry in the U.S.?
A. FAA Regulations: * Rockets containing less than 113 grams of total fuel and weigh less and one (1) pound do not require any type of FAA notification and are not restricted by the FAA except where they pose a threat to aircraft. * FAA "large model rockets" (see the definition in #1, above) require that the nearest Air Traffic Control center (ATC) be notified of the launch between 24 and 48 hours prior to the launch. This is notification and not permission. In the U.S., try calling 1-800-WX-BRIEF to get the number of the ATC center nearest you. * FAA High power rockets (weighing more than 3.3 pounds, containing HPR motors, or containing a total of more than 125 grams of fuel) require a formal waiver be approved by the FAA and activated prior to the launch. Refer to the full r.m.r FAQ (dated 1 Oct 94 or later) for more complete details. * NOTE THAT THE FAA DOES NOT PLACE ANY RESTRICTIONS ON FUEL-PER- MOTOR OTHER THAN THE TOTAL LIMIT OF FUEL. HOWEVER, MOTORS WITH MORE THAN 62.5 GRAMS OF FUEL ARE HIGH POWER ROCKET MOTORS AND REQUIRE HIGH POWER CERTIFICATION TO FLY. This does allow HPR certified flyers to conduct low-end HPR launches (with up to about 240NS composite motors) without having to obtain a waiver. * Remember that HPR waivers, ATC notification and high power certification are all separate issues and must all be properly followed. B. CPSC Regulations/Restrictions: * G class model rocket motors (80.01-160.00NS total impulse) have been classified as high power by the CPSC. They are considered model rocket motors by the NFPA. These motors are now restricted for sale to buyers 18 years of age or older. This includes the sale of G reloadable motors. C. DOT Shipping Restrictions: * Most single use rockets motors with less than 62.5 grams of propellant are now classified as UN 1.4s and can be shipped via UPS (with a HAZMAT fee) or regular parcel post. * Most reloadable rocket motor fuel grains weighing less than 62.5 grams each are now classified as 'flammable solids' and may be shipped via UPS (with HAZMAT fee) or regular parcel post. * The UPS HAZMAT fee is now $10 * Any single use rocket motor containing more than 62.5 grams of fuel, and any reloadable motor fuel grain weighing more than 62.5 grams are classified as UN 1.3c, or Class B, explosives. These motors and reload grains may be shipped ONLY via Federal Express to certain designated shipping points. * Aerotech has announced it has received an exemption for single use motors up to K class and reload grains for at least L, and possibly M class motors, which allow these motors and reload grains to be shipped UPS ground in the same manner as motors containing less
Rec.Models.Rockets Frequently Asked Questions: PART 2 OF 14
NAMES AND ADDRESSES
Last update: May 29, 2002
This portion of the r.m.r FAQ is maintained by Wolfram v.Kiparski. If you notice any errors, inconsistencies, or ommissions, kindly email Wolf, at rmr...@n2netmail.com so that it can be corrected.
--------------------------------------- 2.1 Are their any national-level rocketry organizations which I might join? What services do they offer?
National Association of Rocketry Model and high power rocketry for P.O. Box 177 aerospace modelers in the U.S. and Altoona, WI 54270 around the world. (800) 262-4872 - sanctions contests and records - NARAM and NSL yearly national nar...@nar.org competition and sport launches http://www.nar.org/ - Liability insurance for rocket flying activities Complete information is - "Sport Rocketry" magazine available at the NAR's - Motor safety certification (model web site. and high power rocket motors) - High Power (Level 1-3) flyer certification - NARTREK continuing education program
Tripoli Rocketry Association, Inc. High power rocketry enthusiasts P.O. Box 970010 - Sanctions & insures high power Orem, UT 84097-0010 rocket launches http://www.tripoli.org - High power certification - Yearly national sport launch (LDRS)
--------------------------------------- 2.2 What are the addresses of some the rocketry manufacturers and suppliers? Do they offer catalogs?
Here is a list of rocketry manufacturers and suppliers. The list is divided into a number of categories. Each address appears only once, but may in fact qualify to fit into more than one category. The rocketry industry is rather dynamic, so if this list is six months old, it may be out of date. The editor(s) of this FAQ can not verify if the companies are, or are not in business. Reasonable attempts have been made at completeness, though it is reasonable that this list may not be complete. If you notice any errors or omissions, kindly email Wolf at rmr...@n2netmail.com, and the corrections will be applied ASAP.
Caveat Emptor
--------------------------------------- 2.2.1 Model and High Power Rocket Manufacturers - kits/motors/supplies/etc.
Aerotech, Inc. Composite motors, reloadables (B - M) 3100 E. Charleston Blvd. Large model rocket kits; high Ste. 123 power rockets, parts, supplies Las Vegas, NV 89104 Hybrid motors (702) 641-2301 (702) 641-1883 FAX customerserv...@aerotech-rocketry.com http://www.aerotech-rocketry.com
Apogee Components rocket motors 1/4A - F 1431 Territory Trail Micro Motors (10.5mm) Colorado Springs, CO 80919-3323 Composite B and C motors t...@apogeerockets.com Long burn D, E, and F motors (Timothy Van Milligan) Kits, supplies, and software (719) 535-9335 Educational materials and books http://www.ApogeeRockets.com Catalog - see website
Binder Design mid-high power rocket kits P.O. Box 13376 parts and components Salem, OR 97309 experimental (503) 581-3180 phone/fax binderdes...@aol.com online ordering http://www.binderdesign.com/
Blackhawk R&D mid-high power rocket kits 1 Grand Central Park parts and supplies Suite 2152 fiberglass parts specialist Keyser WV 26726 (304) 788-7660 online ordering sa...@blackhawkrd.com http://www.blackhawkrd.com/
Centuri Engineering OUT OF BUSINESS 9/81 Phoenix, AZ
Cesaroni Technology, Inc. Reloadable rocket motors P.O. Box 246 38mm G - J impulse range 2561 Stouffville Road also mfgs Hypertek Hybrid motors Gormley, Ontario CANADA L0H 1G0 http://www.cesaroni.net/ http://www.pro38.com/mainpage.html
Cluster R See 'Rocket R&D/THOY/Cluster R'
Competiton Model Rockets OUT OF BUSINESS 12/87 Alexandria, VA (see Pratt Hobbies)
Cosmodrome Rocketry E - H power scale rocket kits 1724 W. Great Oak Dr. Tucson, AZ 85746 online ordering (520)295-1529 j9andm...@earthlink.net http://www.cosmodromerocketry.com/
Custom Rocket Co. Model rocket kits and parts somewhere in Arizona
Doctor Rocket Licensed manufacturer of Aerotech DrRoc...@DrRocket.com compatible reloadable motors. http://www.drrocket.com/
Dynacom High power rockets (fiberglass P.O. Box 85 and composite components). Boston, PA 15135-0085 Catalog - $3.00 (412) 751-9515 dyna...@icubed.com http://www.Dynacom-Inc.com/
Eclipse Components OUT OF BUSINESS
Edmonds Aerospace Model rockets and competition 13326 Preuit Place kits, B/G, R/G, RC/G Herndon, VA 22070 Inexpensive, and reputedly of (703) 471-9313 high quality. RobEdmo...@aol.com http://Members.aol.com/RobEdmonds/Edmonds.html
Energon Systems, Inc. OUT OF BUSINESS
Estes Industries, Inc. Model rocket kits & motors P.O. Box 227 Largest rocketry manufacturer 1295 H Street 1/2A through E engines Penrose, CO 81240 (719) 372-6565 (719) 372-3419 FAX (800) 525-7561 (800) 820-0202 replacement parts http://www.estesrockets.com/
Fat Cat Rockets, Inc. unique custom rocket kits 1465 Orlando Circle model rocket through high power Orlando, FL 32818 (407) 298-1363 i...@fatcatrockets.com http://www.fatcatrockets.com/
Flight Systems, Inc. OUT OF BUSINESS
Hawk Mountain Enterprises All fiberglass mid-high power kits RD 1 Box 231 G-12 fiberglass tubing, FR4 phenolic New Ringgold, PA 17960 sheet, kevlar, fiberglass nose cones, (570) 943-7644 and more... (570) 943-2735 fax Online ordering a...@losch.net Catalog and tube sample: $2.50 http://hawkmountain.blastzone.com/
Holverson Designs, Inc. Model rocket kits, rocket/gliders 25075 Co Hwy L20 launch pads, tubes and parts Soldier, Iowa 51572 Centuri-equivalent tubing dholver...@cox.net http://pionet.net/~holvrson/index1.html
Hypertek Hybrid high power rocket mfg. by Cesaroni Technology motors and launch systems. P.O. Box 246 (I, J, L, and M total impulse) 2561 Stouffville Road Gormley, Ontario CANADA L0H 1G0 i...@hypertekhybrids.com http://www.hypertekhybrids.com/mainpage.html
Kosdon East reloadable rocket motors c/o Paul Robinson E-M impulse range 5 Old Bridge St. South Pelham, NH 03076 rroc...@tiac.net http://www.kosdon.com/
(The) Launch Pad midpower and clustered model rocket 477 North Carolina Road kits and plans. Manquin, VA 23106 specializes in scale military missiles vamidp...@aol.com Catalog - $2.75 http://www.the-launch-pad.com/ (see part 07 of this FAQ)
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