Rocket Recovery Systems

When your rocket flies high, you want it to come back safely so you can fly it again! Here are some ways rockets land:

1. Tumble Recovery (aka “Nose Blow”)

• The rocket’s nose pops off and the rocket tumbles down.

• Works best for very light rockets.

• Not used much today, but it’s simple and fun to watch.

2. Streamer Recovery

• A long ribbon (called a streamer) comes out to slow the rocket down.

• Made from paper, plastic, or shiny stuff like mylar.

• Doesn’t slow the rocket as much as a parachute, but it’s easy to use.

3. Parachute Recovery

• A parachute opens up and floats the rocket down slowly.

• Helps protect the rocket from breaking.

• Most beginner rockets use plastic parachutes.

• Bigger rockets use strong fabric parachutes like the ones skydivers use.

4. Rotor Recovery

• The rocket spins like a helicopter as it comes down.

• Super fun to watch!

• Some rockets have spinning fins or parts that help them rotate.

5. Glide Recovery

• The rocket turns into a glider and flies back like a little airplane.

• There are two types:

  • Boost-Glider: The rocket drops its motor and glides back.

  • Rocket-Glider: The rocket keeps everything and glides back using a special balance trick.

 

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🧪 How to Do This Level

🚀 Rocket Kits You Can Use

• Best Choice: Der Mini Red Max (comes with a streamer and is easy to work with).

• Other Good Choices: Estes Wizard or Viking.

🔧 How to Switch Recovery Systems

• Don’t tape the streamer to the rocket like the instructions say.

• Instead, tape a string to one corner of the streamer.

• Use a snap swivel (a little clip) to attach the streamer to the rocket nose.

• Do the same with the parachute—tie the shroud lines with a small knot, add a string, and clip it on with a snap swivel.

• This way, you can swap out your recovery systems.

• You can even make your own parachute from a thin trash bag!

• Sprinkle baby powder on your parachute before folding. It will keep the plastic from sticking.

• Cut a small spill hole (use a bottle cap) in the center of your chute. It will come down straighter and not drift as much.

 

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📚 Helpful Resources

• The Handbook of Model Rocketry by G. Harry Stine and Bill Stine – a great book with tons of info.

• Apogee Rockets – a cool website with videos, tips, and free rocket plans.

 

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