ModelRocketSite.com

New Rocket From Estes

Nick — Fri, 11 May 2012 22:43:40 +0000

This isn’t the first time Model Rocket Site blog has covered Estes’ release of new products. In January we brought you information concerning the release of the Estes Pro Series II rocket kits. These model rocket kits turned out to be extremely popular in model rocketry, particularly the more advanced builders. The following month Estes released their new line of RC helicopters and planes, which was a new direction for the company. Today we are focusing this article on one particular item, the new Dark Energy rocket kit from Estes.
The Dark Energy rocket kit is a Skill Level 2 rocket, which means it only takes a few hours to construct, based on your experience with model rocketry. The rocket does not include too many pieces, wood fins, plastic nose cone, a body tube, and parachute for recovery. With just a few parts it is easy to see why it is a Skill Level 2 model rocket.
Some of the specifications of the Estes Dark Energy rocket are as follow,

A length of 29.8 in or 75.7cm
Diameter of 1.33 in or 34mm
Weighs in at 3.8 oz or 108 g
Projected altitude of 700 feet

This model rocket kit has futuristic styling that you cannot find on most other model rockets. The laser cut wood fins offer a unique design that no other rocket can replicate. The 18 inch, colorful, parachute allows for safe landings after the rocket reaches apogee at nearly 700 feet. There are three types of rocket engines that are suggested for this rocket, B4-2, B6-2, C6-3.

Can NASA Bounce Back?

Nick — Wed, 11 Apr 2012 22:10:17 +0000

As many Americans know, NASA has major plans to cut spending by 20% in 2013. In February of this year NASA announced the Planetary Science division would be dropping nearly $310 million from its budget. The budget cut means fewer future missions to Mars, lunar science, and studying outer planets.

A main division being decommissioned is the space shuttle program. The President would like for NASA to focus on sending cargo and astronauts further than the moon and International Space Station. Future missions being flown to the International Space Station will be made by the Russians, and American astronauts will “hitch” rides with the Russians, for a price. Many private companies hope to cash in on transporting goods and services to the International Space Station as well. Companies around the country are competing for government grants that will be worth millions of dollars to help NASA move equipment to the International Space Station.

NASA continues to make cuts, since the shuttles are being decommissioned they are for sale. The price for a shuttle is set right around $28 million, and one has already been promised to the Smithsonian. This raises the question of, “How many programs will be cut?”. NASA offers many science and technology programs to students of all ages. Some programs show students how to identify different planets, while older students often have the opportunity to build and launch their own model rockets. Will these programs be in jeopardy?

Once the new budget was released there were many people in the science community who expressed their thoughts about the announcement. People were disappointed to see such a successful space shuttle program be scrapped for the national debt. This raises the question, can something like advertising (see image below) save the NASA program?

Guide to Purchasing Model Rockets

Nick — Thu, 05 Apr 2012 21:53:19 +0000

When it comes to buying your first model rocket there are a few things to take into consideration. Model rocketry can be an inexpensive and very fun hobby for people of all ages. Many people buy their first model rocket and after that, they’re hooked. Building model rockets can help educate children in many fields including, science, math, engineering, and technology. It is clear to see why the hobby has had a huge following for over 60 years.

The first thing to consider when purchasing a new model rocket is to set a price range. Model rocketry can be a cheap hobby to take interest in, however you may need some supplies for your first launch. Launch equipment such as a launch pad, launch controller, and igniters will be needed to fire your rocket. Once you have these items you can continue to reuse the launch controller and launch pad for additional launches. Basic Estes Launch sets are priced right around $25 and includes the model rocket, launch pad and launch controller.

If you decide to purchase a launch set all you will need next are the rocket engines. In most cases the size of the model rocket engine will depend on the size of the rocket. It is recommended that beginners fly their model rockets with the smallest engine available. After a few launches it is better to move up in engine size. Model rocket engines are priced at under $9 and come three to a pack. Engines come with igniters and igniter plugs, although it is always nice to have a few extra igniters on hand.

One last thing to consider is the time you are willing to spend building the model rocket. There are different skill levels that are associated with model rocket building. Estes makes ready-to-fly kits that require minimal building skills and can be ready for launch in just a few minutes. Some of the harder rockets, like the skill level 5, may take a day or so to construct.

These are the main equipment pieces a beginner model rocket flyer will need for their first launch. Some additional supplies may include parachutes, or different sized rocket engines, remember model rockets do come with an original parachute though. Browse 321Rockets.com website to see the wide selection of model rockets, rocket engines, and launch equipment to find the kit that will fit your needs best.

Parts of a Model Rocket Engine

Nick — Fri, 30 Mar 2012 21:59:52 +0000

In past articles we have explained the different parts of both the outer and inner pieces of a model rocket. Now we will be discussing the parts of a model rocket engine and how these parts work together to propel a rocket. Understanding a basic model rocket engine can be easy when the parts are broken down into easy to understand pieces.

The casing of the model rocket engine is the outer tube of the engine and is often made from cardboard. The primary purpose of the casing is too hold the rest of the propellants in place. The nozzle operates by directing the gases that are created by the burning fuel to create thrust. The thrust sends the model rocket skyward. It is important to have a nozzle that is proper size, a nozzle that is too large will not flow as high and the thrust will dissipate. If the nozzle is too narrow, pressure may build up which will result in the model rocket being damaged and in worse case scenario, exploding.

The fuel used in most model rockets, including Estes’, is a black powder mix that has been compressed into a solid fuel grain. This makes it more stable and allows for it to burn more efficiently. After the fuel grain burns out there is a delay which is a slow burning fuel used to add extra time before the ejection charge. Once the delay burns out, the ejection charge burns, creating gases that push the parachute out.

These are the primary sections of a model rocket engines, and their basic operating principles. This article should help model rocket builders understand how the engine manages to thrust a rocket hundreds of feet into the air. Now load up your model rocket with some rocket motors and watch the engines in action.

RC Airplanes and Helicopters from Estes Rockets

Nick — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 21:20:39 +0000

For years Estes Rockets have been the leader in manufacturing beginner level model rocket kits and engines. They build a number of different level kits that range from ready to fly up to skill level 5, five being the highest. Kits and engines are not the only thing they build, kits also need launch pads, controllers, igniters, and recovery wadding to fly. All these products can be purchased with Estes.

However, in the beginning of 2012 Estes Rockets decided to expand further into the hobby market. They would continue to build reliable, fun model rockets, but now they would experiment with remote controlled air crafts. The legendary model rocket company released the RC helicopters and RC airplanes at the beginning of the new year and have seen great reviews.

Estes RC helicopters are available in three different types, the A816E, SF161, and the R73-OPS attack helicopter. Each RC Heli features a 3.5 channel infrared controller which makes flying the mean machines quite simple. Keep in mind though, the controllers do require six (6) 1.5V AA alkaline batteries. The brains at Estes Rockets have fitted the RC helicopters with a dual rotor design which gives the vehicle a more sturdy flying platform. This allows for the pilot to easily gain a feeling for the helicopter and learn how to fly it very quickly.

If you are looking for something that is a bit more of a challenge, you may want to consider the Estes RC Airplane. The trickiest part to flying the Estes RC planes is mastering the controls. The planes use a motion-detecting remote control that reacts to movement. In other words, when you move the controller a particular way, the plane reacts to the movement. The throttle is operated by a trigger mechanism, and when it is completely pulled in the plane is at full speed. Since it can be a bit tough learning the controls, it is recommended the pilot take a few practice runs in a wide, open field.

If you’re looking to branch out from the model rocket world, or simply looking for a new thrill, then try a new Estes RC vehicle. These toys will offer a fun challenge, along with hours of entertainment. With Estes Model Rockets continuing to raise the bar within the hobby world, we can only ponder what direction the company will head in next.

Rocket Launch Pad at 95,000 Feet

Nick — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 23:25:55 +0000

Since NASA has reduced its focus on sending orbital vehicles into space, the private sector has stepped up to fill the void. That means more and more companies are racing for federal grants that could be worth millions of dollars. Experimental machines are being built on a daily basis, some great, some not so much.

A company that is leading the way in space travel is JP Aerospace which is a small research company based out of Rancho Cordova, CA. In late October of 2011 the company ventured out to Black Rock Desert in Nevada to see how high they could send an unmanned launch pad. The unmanned launch system, named Tandem, is lifted by two balloons and features two six foot propellers for additional guidance. These propellers are needed to keep the platform balanced when reaching thin air at extreme heights. At 40 thousand to 60 thousand feet the jetstream and turbulence can become a major hurdle to overcome.

The airship reached a maximum height of 95,085 feet, which was a new airship altitude record. At this height the balloons burst which deploys five parachutes that carry the vehicle to the ground safely. The President of JP Aerospace, John Powell, is very happy with the accomplishments of this team, and cannot see what the future holds. This is a major stepping stone in creating a launchable platform at such great heights. This means a rocket can conserve much more fuel by being launched at such amazing heights.

The team will most likely start with a small replica that will launch model rockets, to determine how the airship reacts to additional forces. After five years of developing the unmanned airship the team must face its next obstacle, getting a rocket into space.

Estes Releases Pro Series II Rockets

Nick — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 23:00:09 +0000

In May of 2011, the National Retail Hobby Stores Association hosted their 18th annual Table Top Expo in Las Vegas. Representatives from a number of hobby industries and vendors attended the event, and that includes Estes Rockets. Every year companies bring their new and upcoming products to the event to show consumers what they can expect in the near future. Estes delivered, as they always do.

This year Estes revealed they would be releasing a new mid-power series of model rockets and rocket engines. The set will be called Pro Series II Rockets and are set for release at the beginning of the new year. The new series now appears on the Estes website, along with 321Rockets, and the prices are quite competitive. Online forums and blogs on model rocketry have been buzzing with the anticipation of the new Estes products.

There will be four Pro Series II model rockets available, and each one varies in length and weight. The largest comes in at 56 inches tall, while the shortest rocket is 41 inches long. On the weight side the heaviest rocket is 19.1 ounces and the lightest is the Ventris at 16.5 ounces. Each rocket has a classic design and build, but thereare many more features that are fitted on the rockets. Each rocket comes with laser cut plywood fins, 24 inch nylon parachute, and available separate a motor retainer set.

As the rocket world waits in anticipation for sites to begin stocking these new model rockets, blogs are continuing to talk. Many rocketeers have already decided on which rocket they want, and which size engines they will mount on the model rocket. It’s only a matter of time before these rockets will be blasting into the clouds at your next launch.

Eighth Annual Desert Heat 2012

Nick — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 21:47:48 +0000

Every month clubs around the country host launches within their communities of model rockets. Often these events take place at a designated area the group has visited before and has permission to use. It is an open area free of telephone wires, trees, and homes. The launches may be for an afternoon, or in some cases the entire weekend, with night launches and competitions.

Coming March 24th and 25th the Southern Area Rocketry Association, of Tucson, AZ, will be hosting their 8th annual two-day model rocket launch. Each launch will begin at 9 am and will last throughout the afternoon. On both days at 11 am there will be a mass launch of 50 model rockets. Each cone of the model rocket is numbered and children are encouraged to pick up a cone and return it for a small prize. Saturday, at dusk, there will be a night launch, which makes for a beautiful show.

The event takes place on N. Reservation Road which is located between Manville Road and Mile Wide Road. The location is at the Tucson International Modelplex Park Association, and features a hangar, paved runway, and a ramada with water.

Tucson is only located 2 hours from the Phoenix area and the Desert Heat is sure to be a hit. Every year people flock to the launch site to watch high power rockets launch thousands of feet into the sky. Perfect for family members of all ages and all skill levels. Pack up the car and spend an afternoon watching model rockets blast into the clouds.

Estes Announces New Products

Nick — Mon, 26 Sep 2011 17:33:02 +0000

Each year Estes Model Rockets design, engineer, and produce a number of new products. These new products may be rocket engines, new launch sets or even new skill level model rockets . At the National Retail Hobby Stores Association table expo in Las Vegas, NV, Estes announced they would be releasing four new kits to the public. The kits involved the following:

Leviathon Pro Series II Rocket Kit #9700 – Standing in at 41 inches tall this model rocket features four fins and centering rings made from 3mm birch plywood. The screw-on engine retention cap is made of high-heat resistant ABS plastic and the rocket comes with a 24 inch nylon parachute.
Ventris Pro Series II Rocket Kit #9701 – This model rocket has a ton of features that begin with the 2.0 inch diameter booster airframe, 2.5 inch diameter payload section and nose cone, and a 24 inch parachute. At 45 inches tall this rocket is sure to amaze out on the launch site.
Partizon Pro Series II Rocket Kit #9702 – With 3 fins and centering rings made from 3mm birch plywood the Partizon is sure to becomes a best seller of Estes’. It is 46 inches tall and has an awesome purple and white color scheme that will look amazing when blasting off the launch pad.
Argent Pro Series II Rocket Kit #9703 – The largest of the new Estes rockets, the Argent is 56 inches tall and has a 2.0 inch payload section and nose cone. Like the three other rockets, the Argent is fitted with a 24 inch nylon parachute for recovery.

With the new model rockets on their way much anticipation has it the model rocketry world. Not only does Estes have these four new rocket kits coming out, they have announced new rocket engines at the size of E, F and G. There is no telling what will be created next year.

Estes Star Trek Model Rocket

Nick — Thu, 22 Sep 2011 20:11:44 +0000

During the late 60′s Star Trek was one of the most watched television shows in America. Over the years the show has developed quite a fan base and there are millions of collector items based on the show. Every year people spend thousands of dollars trying to get their hands on a piece of the show. In 1975 Estes Model Rockets jumped on board with Star Trek and developed they’re own memorabilia. Soon Star Trek Flying Model Rockets were released to the public.

In the 1975 Estes catalog the Klingon Battle Cruiser and Starship Enterprise were listed on page 22, but stole the show from many of the other model rockets. Featured on the page was an of First Officer Spock on the left hand side and on the other Captain Kirk at the control panel of the Enterprise. Underneath, two images of the Klingon model rocket and the Starship Enterprise along with specs of both rockets.

Klingon Battle Cruiser Model Rocket – This was a Skill Level 4 rocket that was 15.1 inches long and weighed only 2.5 ounces. Since it was a Skill Level 4 rocket it did take a bit more time to build, but the end result was well worth the effort. The molded plastic and die-cut parts were accurately detailed to match the shows original design. The rocket is fitted with a colorful parachute and designed to fly on B and C series model rocket engines.

Starship Enterprise – Also a Skill Level 4 model rocket, the Starship Enterprise measures in at 16.8 inches long and weighing 3.8 ounces. The model rocket features authentic full-color decals which gives it a realistic look. This rocket was as much fun to fly as it was to display on your shelf.

Estes Model Rockets have always been good at designing some of the most popular model rockets to date. No matter if it is designed after a NASA space shuttle, US Air Force missile or a television shows spacecraft. Estes knows how to build what the people want.