-
Model Rocketry – Where to begin?
In the summer of 2020, during the onslaught of Covid 19, I decided to take up Model Rocketry. It was a perfect hobby for the time – building and flying my own rockets outdoors. But when it came to finding information about where to begin, I faced many challenges. It was rocket science! I decided…
-
Estes Mean Machine
The Estes Mean Machine is a magnificent rocket towering at over 6 feet, soaring to heights of approximately 700 feet! (Note how it dwarfs the door.) This is by far the largest rocket in my collection, and it’s not just for show – this rocket is a powerhouse. This is Estes’ second installment of the…
-
Estes Little Joe 1
Estes Little Joe 1 is a 1/34th scale replica of the historic NASA rocket launched on November 4, 1959, from Wallops Island, Virginia. This rocket was the first in the series of flights that played a crucial role in the development of the Launch Escape System (LES) for the Mercury spacecraft. The LES was a…
-
Estes Twin Factor
Estes Twin Factor is a two-stage rocket with a unique, intriguing design. This 6 inch rocket is mini engine powered and is suitable for beginners who are embarking on their journey in model rocketry or are new to launching a two-stage rocket. This rocket is a refreshing departure from traditional rocket shapes. This rocket is…
-
Estes Sidekick
The Estes Sidekick became my second cluster rocket since my initial experience with the three-motor cluster rocket, Cerberus. This rocket is an excellent choice for beginners in model rocketry who want to try their hand at cluster engines. What sets this rocket apart is its unique design featuring two parallel tubes, that can each house…
-
Estes Yankee
The Estes Yankees may be compact in size, but it possesses the remarkable ability to reach impressive altitudes. With its streamlined design, slender fins, and lightweight frame, this rocket is extremely lightweight enabling it to soar to unprecedented heights. The instructions are very straightforward making this rocket a perfect choice for any beginner in model…
-
Estes Astron Explorer
The Estes Astron Explorer stands impressively tall at 42.20 inches and marked my introduction to master series rockets. Assembling it was challenging, demanding close attention to a number of intricate instructions. I recommend bringing ample patience to the table for the completion of this rocket. The painting and finishing also posed their own set of…
-
Estes Multi-Roc
Multi-Roc is the most versatile rocket I have ever flown. It flies as a single-stage, payloader, dual-stage, and carrier for the included glider. I really enjoyed using the dual-stage to boost the height of the rocket and then watching the balsa glider drift down slowly. If you are new to model rocketry and want to…
-
Rocketarium Cerberus
Cerberus rocket was by far the most complicated I built, yet it was definitely the most thrilling. For my cluster rocket (NARTREK Silver level), I selected the Cerberus and I did not regret it for a minute! This rocket is tall, almost 3 feet tall, and uses multiple engines (3 A, B, or C) to…
-
Estes Gryphon
Gryphon is a small rocket that is perfect for launching a glider. A small, lightweight cardboard body helps this rocket reach great heights. It carries a small glider made of balsa wood that detaches itself at the apogee. I spent a lot of time in my backyard trying to tweak the rocket with the putty…
-
Estes Neon Tiger
Neon Tiger is a great beginner rocket to launch a glider. The small striped glider detaches from the rocket at the apogee. Neon Tiger was my first glider rocket and it was fun to watch the glider gliding gracefully while the parachute brought the primary rocket back. The rocket is easy to build and launch…
Model Rocketry for Beginners
Learn Model Rocketry with Raunak