AWARS ROCKET PAGE

(Actually We Are Rocket Scientists)

Here I am getting a rocket ready for launch. This picture was taken helping out with Jessie and Ted's science project. Also show my 3rd generation launching setup. Pictured is a KMART Nautalus Deep Cycle Marine Battery, a TruckAir 12 volt air compressor (from Kmart), the white PVC with the pressure gauge has the tire valve and in the input side. The thin black tubing is about 20' long and goes to launch tube using an internal O-ring and the "old fashioned" prop-stick lever holddown device. I am building a Clark Cable launcher (see below).

Here is my 85 year old grandma launching a water rocket rocket. She got a real thrill doing it. This picture and following one were taken at a family party where I decided to provide some entertainment.. Always travel with your rockets!!!

This was my prototype "Clark Cable" launcher. I painted the PVC blue. The gold tube under the rocket is the cuff holding the cable in place. The blue tube is capped at the bottom and fits into a socket (a threaded PVC adapter) that is screwed into iron floor flange. The rocket being launched is my "Cub Scout" rocket. It has fins cut out of a plastic NO TRESPASSING sign taped to the side using Duct Tape, and has a tennis ball taped to the top.

Lessons Learned:

• The gold cuff was too heavy (it was a PVC coupler) and would slip down even when the rocket was being pressurized. I had to use a piece of cardboard slipped inside it to provide the friction to hold it. Next time I will use FTC tubing and for looks, cover it with RED taillight tape. (You can buy this wide red tape at automotive stores. It is used as a temporary repair to the red tail lights when the plastic lens is broken out).
• The wood base is too small for the height the rocket is above the ground. There are holes drilled in it to stake it to the ground and prevent it from falling when pulling launch string.
• The socket and blue rod are 1/2" PVC which is too small and wobbly for this length. If I keep it this length I will use 3/4" but will probably shorten it down by half.
• Duct tape doesn't take paint well. I covered the cable tie assembly with Duct Tape to try and make it visually appealing. However the paint just flaked of the Duct Tape.

• Rocket Launch PIC ( Small Version)
• Rocket Launch PIC w/notations ( Small Version)
• Very Large Rocket PIC ( Very Large Version) Who is that red man in background below rocket fin? Government Agent or Softball Player?

Cub Scout Rocket Launcher

Rocket Building 101

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