How to Colonize an
Asteroid
How to Colonize an
Asteroid
2/2/1997 The FAA has created a new classification for rocketeers, called "Large Model Rockets". These rockets may be up to 3.3lbs (US) in weight, and use up to a "G" class engine. While FAA flight clearance is not required, you must contact the nearest FAA center 24 hours prior to launch and inform them of your location and intentions. If you know someone with a GPS (Global Positioning Sensor), have them locate your launch site exactly before contacting the FAA.
I flew my first (and only) "Large" model rocket in August of 1997. It was manufactured by a company called "LOC Precision", and is called "The Graduator". My intention was to paint it with shiny metallic gold paint, and then put a coat of clear lacquer over the top, but I failed to remember some of my basic chemistry (and failed to read ALL of the directions on the can), and the two different kinds of paint reacted with each other for some rather bizarre results. In spite if this, the rocket has flown on disposable "F" and "G" engines - to almost 4000 feet in altitude.
It costs between 9 and 12 dollars (US) per flight to fly this bird, and it cannot really carry a payload. I fly it once in a while at rocket meets, but I have moved on to higher power levels, which allow for larger payloads and greater altitude.
Construction of this bird is similar to that of the smaller model rockets, but the fins are plywood and we use epoxy instead of wood glue. Everything has to be much stronger, due to thrust levels 4 to 5 times that of most "Model" rockets.
This can be a really fun area of concentration for a hobbiest. There are many competitions to see who can achieve the greatest altitude in a given power range, and I have seen people fly cameras on "G" engines. (My preference, however, is for more of a "Tim Allen" approach to model rocketry...)
