- Dark Star
I recently purchased a Dark Star rocket kit from Wildman, Tim Lehr. At $109, this kit is well worth the money with many of the features that Wildman specifies for his kits. Mr. Tim Lehr really seems to know what the rocket community desires in a quality kit. To compliment the kit, I also ordered a 38mm Aeropack motor retainerto go with it. I would like to make my return (again) to rocketry as quick as possible, as I remember all of the things that I used to enjoy with the hobby. However, one of the aspects that I have truly come to enjoy with this hobby, which has to do with rocket construction, is laminating Kraft tube airframes with composite materials and epoxy, in order to strengthen the airframe. Well, anyone one who has spent time laminating tubes knows, that there is nothing “quick” about it. Hence is one of the many reasons why the Dark Star kit is so attractive…the kit is ALL filament wound fiberglass, meaning no Kraft tubing to work with. The split fin is also a nice touch, as I am a fool for multiple fin design rockets…
I will write more as I build or complete the build of the kit. It should go quickly; it looks like it may take longer to decide on a paint scheme than it will be to finish construction…See you on the field!
Souther Thunder 2009
I have been other wise side-tracked from rocketry, as another activity has pretty much captivated my time. If anyone has ever had the opportunity to participate as a band booster volunteer, you would know where I am coming from when I say that I have little time for anything else. Nonetheless, I managed to make a meager 2-hour showing at Sothern Thunder 2009 on Fathers Day the 21st of June. I had originally planned to attend all three days of the Southern Thunder 2009, my first launch since having certifief Tripoli Level III at Southern Thunder 2008, one of the days was to include the Research launch on Friday. Instead, I cancelled all plans due to other pressing matters, but managed to make a short trip to Manchester, TN for an early afternoon flight. It was Fathers day, so my daughter felt it her civic duty to accompany me to the launch, so that she could wait on me hand and foot…she is awesome!! Continue reading Short ST2009 Report…(very short)
