Building a model rocket takes time, even if it’s only a level-one build. And, of course, no rocketeer builds a model just to look at it; they want to see what it can do. But before setting off to do the launch, you need to find the best location. Executing the blast-off in a bad spot could ruin the entire experience. Here are four places you can launch your model rocket safely.
The Backyard
Sometimes the best place to start is right in your own backyard. You don’t need to travel further than a few feet from the house. However, launching at home can come with some complications. For starters, you need to be a good distance away from your home.
Depending on the power of the engine and the blast, you don’t want to run the risk of setting your home on fire. Second, try to launch in a damp area. Dry grass and rocket launches do not mix well. If it hasn’t rained in a couple of days, lightly water the grass. Also, try and position the rocket so that you don’t have to recover it on someone else’s property when it lands.
A School Lot
Because model rockets are such an educational experience, launching them in school parking lots is usually a good idea. However, you need to get the administration to agree to the launch. They will probably want to be sure you follow the proper safety guidelines.
Check with the school administration before you start to build the rocket. It will need to be a safe distance from any cars or trees. Launching the rocket inside a lot with cars isn’t safe. The parking lot needs to be vacant, and you need to ensure the ground is level.
A Public Park
When we say public park, we don’t mean one with swings, slides, and a lot of kids. There might be a playground in the area, but the park should be big enough where there is an open field close by. A public park might be slightly tricky because there could be a lot of trees.
Make sure your launch happens away from the trees. It makes it easier to recover because you don’t want to climb a tree to retrieve your rocket. Even though the park is public, you should still check with local officials to get permission for the launch.
Vacant Land
Vacant land will always be prime real estate for a rocket launch. However, it needs to be vacant and unused. You never want to launch a rocket and property owned by someone else.
The launching might not have a significant impact on the land, but you still don’t want to run the risk of damaging private property. Check to see that the land is vacant, and then make sure the ground is even and clear. Now you’re ready to prepare your Estes rocket launch kit.
Here at AC Supply, we’re all about helping you have a successful launch. And choosing one of these four places to launch your rocket safely is always step one.