Model Rocket Specifications
- 3.1 Compliance
- A model rocket must comply with all specifications in this section and the Model Rocket Safety Code before, during, and after flight.
- 3.2 Gross Launching Mass
- The gross launching mass of a model rocket, including model rocket motor or motors, must in not exceed 1,500 grams.
- 3.3 Propellant
- No more than a total of 125 grams of solid propellant materials may be contained in its model rocket motor(s) at the moment of launch.
- 3.4 Stages
- There must be no more than three consecutively fired stages. The staged configuration of the model is considered to be the state of the model at the instant of first motion on the launcher.
- 3.5 Reusability
- A model rocket must be so constructed as to be capable of more than a single flight; and must be provided with a means for retarding its descent to the ground so that its structure may not be substantially damaged, and so that no hazard is created to persons and property. If a model descends in more than one unattached part, each part must conform to the above specification.
- 3.6 Materials
- Construction of the airframe must be of wood, paper, rubber, plastic, or other similar materials consistent with the Model Rocket Safety Code.
- 3.7 Stability
- Design and construction must include suitable means for providing stabilizing and restoring forces necessary to maintain a substantially true and predictable flight path. If required by safety officers or judges, the builder of the model must present data demonstrating that their model meets this requirement.
- 3.8 On-Board Ignition System
- A model rocket possessing an autonomous ignition system (e.g., for initiation of any energetic function) must be provided with a safety switch or other device capable of preventing actuation of the system until immediately prior to the launch.
- 3.9 Dethermalizer
- A model rocket equipped with a dethermalizer or other device designed to operate via combustion (e.g., a cotton fuse or wick) must be designed so that ignition of the device presents no imminent hazard to the person igniting the device. In addition, the model rocket must be designed so that the device is extinguished as soon as possible after performing its function (e.g., by inclusion of a snuffer tube).