The Rocket Team runs a program each year to help new members design and build an L1 cert rocket. As part of the program, members use OpenRocket to design a rocket from a set of standard parts. These parts are then ordered in bulk and distributed in custom-made 'kits'. Team members then assemble their rockets from these parts in supervised work sessions, and launch together at a public launch somewhere in New England (CATO, RIMRA, and CMASS organize launches regularly).
Part List
We use Apogee parts to assemble the L1 'kit'. The following parts are required for each student:
| Part | Details | Order Link (correct as of 28 Nov 2020) |
|---|---|---|
| Body Tube | LOC BT3.00 - Cardboard | https://www.apogeerockets.com/Building_Supplies/Body_Tubes/High_Power_Tubes/3-00in_LOC_Body_Tube |
| Nose Cone | PNC-#.00 (75mm) for Thick Wall Tubes | https://www.apogeerockets.com/Building_Supplies/Nose_Cones/High_Power_Nose_Cones/PNC-3-00_75mm_Thick_Wall_Tubes |
| Motor Mount (Inner) Tube | 29mm Thick Wall Cardboard Tube - Cut to length | https://www.apogeerockets.com/Building_Supplies/Body_Tubes/29mm_to_54mm_Tubes/29mm_x_34in_Thick_Wall_Tube |
| Shock Cord | 1500# Kevlar Cord - Need ~2 body tube lengths per rocket | https://www.apogeerockets.com/Building_Supplies/Parachutes_Recovery_Equipment/Shock_Cord/Kevlar_Cord_1500 |
| Fins | Cut from 1/8" Plywood - Custom shape | |
| Centering Rings | Cut from 1/8" Plywood | |
| Rail Buttons | Standard Rail Buttons - may need different screws | https://www.apogeerockets.com/Building_Supplies/Rail_Buttons/1in_1010_Rail_Button_Standard |
| Motor Retention Clips | 2 Screws w' Washers work well |
In addition, the following parts are owned by the team and shared
- 29mm 3 & 4 grain motor cases
- Parachutes
- Nomex Parachute Protectors
- Igniter sets
We recommend Cesaroni 29mm H (I is ok as well) motors (e.g.H87) - these can be bought from Apogee or on-site at some fields
Design Criteria
After students submit designs in OpenRocket, they should be evaluated based on the following criteria before ordering parts:
- The correct parts are used (unless the student plans on buying their own parts)
- The simulated altitude is below the waiver limit for the planned launch field
- The stability off the launch rail is acceptable (~1-2.5 calibers) for the following cases
- Ideal launch conditions (4 mph winds, no launch rod angle)
- Worst-case conditions (9 mph wings, 3 degree launch rod angle)
- An appropriate delay for the flight has been selected
- The fins have tabs that are connected to the inner tube (through the wall construction)
Design Presentations
Presentations can be found on the parent page