February 2023

Unfortunately, weather shortened this launch weekend to a single day, however, that didn’t stop a near record crowd from logging 68 flights from A to K power. We also saw 9 successful Tripoli L1 certifications, congratulations to all of you and welcome to high power!!!

Cert 1 attempt lifting off on an Aerotech H73

A longtime member brought out a classic LOC Precision Magnum. Flew her on an Aerotech K550 air starting a pair of Aerotech H97 Black Jack motors. The Magnum hit just shy of 5,000′ with a perfect recovery.

A Local NASA SLI team with the first flight of their rocket on an Aerotech K535.
5″ WildMan JART on an Aerotech J275 White Lightning.
Beautiful liftoff on an Aerotech I211. This fantastic flight ended with a perfect recovery.

The final flight of the day was a Formula 150 on an Aerotech K700. Apogee was just shy of 3000′ and recovery was picture perfect. Awesome close to a fantastic day of flying.

We added a second launch at the end of the month to support TARC, IREC, NASA SLI teams, and club members. The weather on Saturday was poor causing the day to be cancelled after only three flights. Sunday morning wasn’t much better. Dense fog in the morning resulted in a cloud ceiling that could easily be measured in inches. The forecast however showed that it would clear and did it ever! The damp overcast conditions gave way to blue sky, sunshine, and moderate to low winds. In all 71 flights took to the sky using A to L power. We also saw the successful static test of a 76mm N motor!

A large NASA SLI project lifting off on an Aerotech K828 headed to just over 4000 feet. Liftoff was perfect and so was the recovery. Very well done.

WildMan Rocketry Competitor tearing off the rail on an 54mm EX K motor.
King Blobo lifting off on an Aerotech I284.
Custom build lifting off on an Aerotech I327 Dark Matter!

A NASA SLI team with their custom carbon fiber build taking to the sky on an Aerotech L850! Apogee was just under 5000 feet.

An Animal Motor Works Blue Baboon taking to the sky on an Aerotech J415. Recovery was as beautiful as the liftoff. This flight was the highest of the day, arcing over at 6000′.