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How Model Rockets Work
     Model Rockets are an exciting and fascinating hobby for people of all ages. Some enjoy the construction and painting of the models, while others prefer the operational  end of the hobby - launching and recovery.  Most hobbyists enjoy doing both.

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The Rocket
     All model rockets have the following parts: (1) One or more body tubes, the long round tube that holds the engine and payload, (2) a nose cone to reduce air resistance, (3) fins to provide stability in flight, (4) an engine to power it, (5) a launch lug, and a (6) a recovery system. The more complex rockets may have several body tubes connected by tube couplers.
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Rocket Engine Igniters
Engines and Igniters
     The heart of the rocket is its engine. It contains a propellant for lift-off and acceleration, tracking smoke for the coasting phase, and an ejection charge to activate the recovery system. This is explained in more detail under Rocket Engine Information. The engine is activated through the use of an electrically controlled igniter. This is an important safety device as it lets the operator be a significant distance away from the rocket when the engine begins to burn.
[Picture] The Launch Pad
     The launch pad provides stability for lift off. It consists of a long launch rod to provide direction. (Shown at left is the Porta-Pad; it's launch rod is 32 inches long.) and a deflector plate. Both are mounted on a tripod support. The rocket is placed on the launch pad by slipping the launch rod into the launch rod mounted on the rocket.

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 The Launch Controller
     The Controller is a battery powered switch device. A wire runs from the controller to the igniter placed in the engines. Controllers have a continuity light that comes on to indicate that the circuit is complete and functional and a safety key to prevent the switch from being accidentally pushed.
Operation
   The completed rocket is taken to the launch site. The Launch Pad is set up. The igniter is placed in the engine, and the rocket is placed on the Launch Pad. The operator moves a safe distance away from the rocket. He alerts spectators and participants that a launch is about to take place. He double checks the controller's continuity light to insure the circuit is a-OK, then removes the safety interlock key, and begins his count down.
FIVE ... FOUR ... THREE ... TWO ... ONE ... "We have ignition and lift off."
    There are several phases to the rocket's flight. The first is the thrust phase. It is during this time that the impulse section of the engine burns. Once it has exhausted, the coasting phase begins. The engine is still active, but it is burning smoke, permitting you to follow the flight. The rocket is still climbing, using its momentum. Then, the Ejection charge ignites, which actives the recovery system. This is usually a parachute to permit the slow descent of the rocket, or it can be a streamer so that you can follow its path. Recover the rocket, install a new engine, then launch again.		 [Picture]