Mark Kulka's Art Applewhite Rockets Micro Cluster Saucer

This is a modification o' Art Applewhite Rockets' Micro Flyin' Saucer, which is provided as a free plan on their website.  I altered t' central motor mount/spoke assembly t' enable it t' hold three motor tubes in a triangular cluster configuration rather than one motor tube. Aye aye! T' rest o' t' rocket was built as designed. I used t' pattern provided for t' motor tube and thrust block t' make two additional tubes and blocks. Because o' t' increased size o' t' motor tube area thar be less open space betwixt it and t' upper and lower shrouds, but I still managed t' include spin tabs on t' spokes, as in t' original design. Ahoy! They were simply reduced in size on this version.

For cluster ignition I use a clip whip and me 12 volt launch system. Well, blow me down! All flights o' this rocket were done usin' three MicroMaxx II motors, ignited by QMX igniters that had been stripped out o' their plastic plug housings. Avast! Usin' a clip whip t' hook up six very short leads o' igniters t' a tight cluster o' such small motors requires confidence, patience, keen eyesight and a serene state o' mind. This is especially true when t' rocket is teeterin' on three toothpicks that are actin' as igniter holders, on a very small and rather tippy launch pad. Begad! But I was able t' accomplish it, me bucko, and have had successful ignition o' all three motors in all but t' very first flight.





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