Model Rocket Info (G and Under)
What is Model Rocketry?
Model rocketry was developed during the "space race" era as an
alternative to the amateur rocket activity -- involving metallic
airframes and the mixing of dangerous propellants -- that was
responsible for injuring and even killing numerous young scientific
experimenters.
Model rockets are constructed of much safer materials -- such as cardboard, plastic, and balsa wood -- and are fueled by single-use rocket motors manufactured by professional concerns. These rockets may be flown over and over simply by replacing the used motor with a fresh one. They typically contain a parachute, streamer, or other recovery device that allows them to land gently for later reflight. The modeler need never mix, pack, or work with explosives or propellants.
Today, model rocket kits and motors can be purchased in almost every hobby shop and toy store. Kits are designed for all ages and all levels of challenge, from simple starter kits to complicated scale models. Motor power ranges from "1/4A" (the smallest) to "G" -- enough power to lift a six-foot model and a hefty payload!
Model rockets must be flown in compliance with the Model Rocket Safety Code.
How many ways can you have fun with rockets? The NAR is all about having fun and learning more with and about model rockets. We are the oldest and largest sport rocketry organization in the world. Since 1957, over 80,000 serious sport rocket modelers have joined the NAR to take advantage of the fun and excitement of organized rocketry.
Read Sport Rocketry Magazine!
Sport Rocketry is a bi-monthly magazine jam-packed with building tips, plans, product reviews, technical information, space science features, interviews, and reports on launches and other rocketry activities from all over the country! (Check our our free online
sample issue!)
Visit NAR Organized Rocket Launches!
NAR members and Sections host hundreds of launches each year -- both
sport launches and
competitions -- from the local and
regional levels to national events. Check out our Online Launch Windows calendar
listing some of the launches coming up in the next few months, in
the United States and worldwide.
Connect With NAR Local Clubs!
When you get together with model rocket flyers in a NAR Section near you --
participate in building sessions, launches, and more! Your sport rocket designing, building,
and flying is always more fun when you have rocket flying friends joing you. If you'd like to
have a club closer to you, we'll even show you how to start a
new one!
Learn New Rocket Techniques with NARTREK!
When you join the NARTREK (National Association of Rocketry Training Rocketeers for Experience and Knowledge) program, you fly increasingly complex rockets through three levels. As each level is finished, you receive an Achievement Certificate and a jacket patch certifying your accomplishment. You are under no time limit. You progress at your own pace. You can even "try it before you buy it" by downloading the
Bronze Level Packet
now, and following the instructions on the first page!
Fly Model Rocket Contests!
Since 1959, sanctioned NAR model rocket competition has evolved into a proven method for challenging the individual to improve craftsmanship and flying skills. It is an activity that emphasizes patience, skill, and sportsmanship. Any NAR member can participate in NAR sanctioned competition. The U.S. Model Rocket Sporting Code , or "Pink Book," is the official rulebook for conducting and participating in NAR sanctioned competition. NAR members can design and build model rockets for over 25 different competition events. Official US Records can be set in many of these events. The NAR has an archive of competition rocket plans suitable for many contest events and skill levels.
Join Today!
Your model rocket experience will "liftoff"...
...as soon
as you become a member of the National Association of Rocketry!
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