Flight Safety (Rocket Motor)

Never light a rocket motor with a fuse. Always use an electric igniter. When launching rockets powered by motors up through E in size, stand at lease 25 feet away from the launch pad. When launching rockets powered by F through I motors, stand 50 to 100 feet away. If a rocket flies off course, it can travel downrange anywhere from a few dozen feet to a distance approximately equal to its expected maximum altitude. Therefore make sure that the launch site is clear of all flammable materials for a radius equal to the rocket’s expected altitude. For example, if the rocket is capable of reaching an altitude of 2.500 feet, make sure that there’s nothing flammable within 2.500 feet of the launch pad.
The lightweight “model rocket” kits sold at hobby and toy shops will handle motors up through E. but they are not sturdy enough to withstand the high speeds and accelerations produced by the larger motors. For a motor larger than an E. you need a “high power” rocket kit. Some hobby and toy shops sell “high power” kits, but because they are more expensive, the selection is limited, and you might have better luck dealing directly with the manufacturers. Most of them have websites on the Internet, and a search on the phrase, “high power rocket”, should bring up dozens. You’ll find general information about high power rocketry on the Tripoli website at www.tripoli.org. and for motor-making info & supplies, look over The Teleflite Corporation website at www.teleflite.com. or www.amateur-rocketry.com. At Teleflite’s website you can view Teleflite’s catalogue, and place orders with a credit card over a secured server. You’ll also find answers to frequently asked questions.