Paying forward, flying high, and promoting model rocketry.

Your First Model Rocket

   Congratulations on deciding to join the magnificent hobby of model rocketry. You are starting a journey of discovery that will bring you a lifetime of learning and fun. This guide will give you some basic guidelines to help you get started quickly and easily.

   The first thing you need to do is research information on model rocketry (this website is a great start). You need to become familiar with the parts of a rocket, how a model rocket works, how model rocket motors work, and how to fly model rockets safely.

   The next thing to do is select your first model rocket. I personally love the Estes kits which are available at most hobby shops and large national retailers (like Wal-Mart). It is important that you select a model appropriate for your experience and skill level. If you have excellent mechanical or modeling skills a more difficult kit would be suitable. However, if you have never built a model before, an RTF (Ready-to-Fly) or E2X (Easy-to-Assemble) kit may be more appropriate.

   Please don't attempt a model like the Estes Saturn V (at right) your first time out. It can be a frustrating experience for you if you try to tackle something too complex right away. Just as an athlete has to train and develop their talents - so do you as a model rocketeer. I began my long and wonderful career in model rocketry with an Estes Super Shot E2X starter set. Good luck!

Some Tips for New Rocketeers

1. Find a local model rocketry club and attend a launch. Consider joining the club. If you're new to model rocket construction, you can improve your chances of success greatly by finding a mentor. The experience a mentor can offer will can save you a lot of time and frustration.

2. Be honest with yourself about your skills and abilities. You will have far better results if you select a kit that doesn't exceed your experience level. There are few things more frustrating than ruining an expensive rocket kit or having the finished product fail to meet your expectations.

3. Take your time when building a kit. With all the high-speed fast dry adhesives and paint available to you, it is easy to want to rush a project and make a mistake. It is far more rewarding come launch time to know that you built and painted something to the best of your abilities. Not only will you feel good about your projects - they will look good too.

4. Use caution when preparing your model for launch. A melted or poorly packed parachute can cause your flying masterpiece to fall to its death. Here again, a mentor can also help you prolong the life of your model rocket.

5. Try building scale model rockets of NASA rockets and military missiles. This will give you a greater appreciation for the history of rockets and help you refine your skills and abilities.

6. There are three things you need for a successful flight: a lot of open space (2 football fields); little or no wind (under 10mph); and good visibility. If you don't have these things then do yourself a favor and don't launch.

7. If you are under 15, please seek the assistance of an adult when building and flying your model rocket. A model rocket can easily reach speeds of several hundred miles per hour. The last thing you need is a rocket tipping over or flying out of control. Model rocketry is bar none one of the safest hobbies in the world. Let's keep it that way.

8. Some states have minimum age requirements for purchasing model rocket motors. Others may require launch site permission or some type of permit. Check with your local city hall, fire department, or police department if you are unsure of your town's policies. You don't want to upset Homeland Security...

9. Most importantly... be safe and have fun!