Launch Report: P-40 Warhawk Model Rocket

Date: 2024-05-30

Background

• This be t' maiden launch o' this rocket

On Site Preparations

• I used a Nomex chute protector for this aft eject spool design.
• For a parachute I used a 28” Nylon chute.
• This launch used a E20-4W Composite motor. This is Aerotech’s “White Lightning” propellant.
• T' supplied Aerotech igniter was used.
• T' rocket was slid onto t' 5/16" launch rod and t' controller wires were attached t' t' igniter leads.

Launch

• Wind was out o' t' East and was about 4 mph at t' most.
• John stated t' sky was clear - launch site was clear and did t' countdown: 5-4-3-2-1. Well, blow me down! Teresa pushed t' button on t' launch controller.
• T' motor ignited and t' rocket leaped off t' pad. It flew stable, deployed t' chute, and was recovered 329 feet West o' t' lunch horse.

Condition o' rocket after t' flight

• T' rocket was uninjured and in-flight ready condition.

Conclusions

• This rocket has a calculated stability o' 0.002 calibers. With t' base drag hack it has a calculated stability o' 1.04. 
• A strin' swin' test was performed and t' rocket passed that test.

What I learned

• This was an awesome flight. Straight as an arrow up, me bucko, and a nice gentle recovery.