| Model rockets go beyond being simple toys - they | | | | aerodynamics, there are a few things to keep in |
| offer a fun way to learn about physics and | | | | mind:o Be prepared to repeat each rocket flight a |
| aerodynamics. Few things are more satisfying | | | | number of times. Many factors can affect the |
| than launching a rocket into the air, and many kids | | | | results - from weather conditions and |
| will happily spend hours doing this. Making small | | | | measurement accuracy to manufacturing |
| adjustments of angle and propulsive force can | | | | differences. All rockets are not created equal, so |
| demonstrate basic principles in an interactive way. | | | | repeat test flights with the same rocket-engine |
| Clearly, anything that can be propelled hundreds of | | | | combination, such as an Estes model rocket or |
| feet needs to be handled with care. Make sure | | | | Apogee Components. Then each data point will be |
| that all safety precautions have been followed and | | | | a more accurate reflection of the rocket's actual |
| any homemade constructions are built according | | | | potential.o Changing rocket parts will affect the |
| to reliable instructions. Several companies specialize | | | | flight measurements. Different engines, nose |
| in rockets and parts, including the Estes model | | | | cones, paint finishes, specialty fins, and parachutes |
| rocket and Apogee Components. Model rockets | | | | all represent variables to be tested.o Test one |
| can come pre-assembled, with some parts to | | | | variable at a time. Don't change fin type and |
| glue, or with even more assembly required. | | | | position at the same time. Repeat launches |
| Equipped with small engines, some Estes model | | | | several times with each fin type, then with each |
| rocket engines have enough force to travel | | | | fin position - the results will be more reliable.o |
| hundreds or thousands of feet. There is plenty of | | | | Measuring altitude is probably the hardest part of |
| scope for conducting experiments to supplement | | | | rocket experiments. There are hand-held and |
| a physics curriculum or extend to a science fair | | | | tripod-mounted elevation trackers. Using multiple |
| project. To understand rocket aerodynamics, | | | | trackers in different locations (but at similar |
| there are a few important concepts to introduce. | | | | distances) will allow a better estimate of altitude. |
| Flight involves four different forces, including two | | | | Decide on whether measurements are made at |
| opposing sets: weight acts downward while lift | | | | the time when the highest point is reached or |
| acts upward, thrust acts forward and drag acts | | | | when the parachute releases. |
| backward. Other considerations include the center | | | | When looking for an experimental topic, consider |
| of pressure and center of gravity, which both | | | | whether it is a testable variable and if it makes |
| affect a rocket's stability. | | | | any meaningful difference. For example, think |
| There are many different ways that model | | | | about whether certain rocket parts affect stability |
| rockets can be used for experimentation. Not only | | | | and spin, what parachute characteristics are most |
| do rocket experiments offer an opportunity to | | | | effective, or if predicted altitude matches actual |
| see forces in motion, but they provide a window | | | | altitude. There is a lot more to be learned than |
| into the scientific method, data collection, and | | | | just seeing how high an Estes model rocket can |
| statistical analysis. When planning to look at rocket | | | | go or how long it can stay aloft. |