Contest Flying

Vince Huegle prepares to fly a 4″ V-2 on an F50-6. The model is painted in the White Sands paint scheme.

How can I make it fly higher?
How can I make it fly better?
How good am I compared to other rocketeers?

 If you are asking yourself questions like these, then you are ready for NAR competition rocketry!

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 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. In 2009 the NAR expanded its competition program by introducing a new dimension of competition for for high-power rockets. This new program is described in the High Power Rocket Sporting Code.

In 2017 the NAR completely revised the competition process to eliminate the annual accumulation of competition points and shift emphasis to individuals flying competitively against other individuals from throughout the U.S., each at their own local launch, in a half-dozen events that are standardized for each contest year but change between years.  The “National Rocketry Competition” events for the 2019-2020 competition year (August 5, 2019 to July 1, 2020) are:

  • 1/2 A Boost-Glider Duration
  • 1/2 A Streamer Duration
  • 1/2 A Helicopter Duration
  • 1/2 A Parachute Duration
  • 1/2 A Altitude (with altimeter)
  • B Payload Altitude

NAR Sections across the country host NAR launches that provide members the opportunity to participate in competition rocketry. These competitions range in size from two fliers from a local club to large meets drawing fliers from several states. The NAR holds an annual National Meet (NARAM) to bring together all NAR members for a weeklong event. The next national championship meet, NARAM-62, will be held at the National Warplane Museum’s grass airstrip in Geneseo, NY July 25-31, 2020.  Events will be the 6 NRC events above plus:

  • 1/2A Flexwing Duration
  • D Superroc Altitude (with altimeter)
  • Sport Scale
  • Research and Development

Launch Windows Online lists most of the launches currently scheduled where competition events can be flown. Not all launches are always listed, so it is best to contact an NAR Section near you to find out about contest activity in your area.

Want to be part of NAR rocketry competition?  Read the basic explanation briefing attached below.

Looking for Contest Entry forms and Flight Cards? Find them here.

Related Documents:

National Rocketry Competition Explained - Aug 2017 PDF September 24, 2017, 1:57 am 117 KB