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Model Rocketry/Experts

ExpertAverage RatingsExpertise

Todd Panico

Available
I can answer questions about designing, building, testing and flying single stage model rockets using 1/4 to D size engines.

Dave Landgraf

U.S.
Available
I will be happy to take on questions about low-power rocketry in general, including rocket design, operating characteristics of blackpowder motors, low-power motor selection, rocket construction, aerodynamics, parachute and streamer duration competition, boost glide (and a little rocket glide), egg loft, altitude competition, and scale competition. I can help you with Barrowman stability calculations, but I am not a rocksim user. I know the basics of mid-power rocketry and small composite motors but I don't fly them much (I'd rather stretch my money by sticking with low-power). I believe I can explain many concepts in a way that just about anyone can follow (and maybe even over-explain?). I absolutely do not mind "newbie" questions one bit; the only bad question is the one you don't ask!

Dave Combs

U.S.
Available
Can: Nearly all low-power and some high-power rocketry questions. Can't: Anything that approaches violations of NAR/TRA safety codes; advanced high-power rocketry questions beyond L1 (I'm still learning those myself).

James Bell

U.S.
On Vacation
returns 12/06/2009
I am a member of Tripoli Rocketry Association, and am certified to fly hi power rockets. I can answer questions anyone may have about design, materials selection, stability calculations, motor selection, altitude and performance predictions, and parachute and recovery options.

Recent Answers

2009-11-14 Wire Gauge:

Hi Alan, I don't have information handy on the size of the side conductors, but the Estes-type igniters really only rely on the tiny bridge wire at the tip to get hot. The two leads on the sides could

2009-10-27 rocket nozzle:

Hello, Veerendra, It sounds like you have started a very ambitious experiment. I hope you are using good safety practices, and have a teacher or experienced advisor to help build these motors properly

2009-10-10 attaching fins:

First and foremost, CONGRATULATIONS and well done to you for starting a rocketry club at school! Your efforts will inspire your students to do well in your classes and get at least a few to consider careers

2009-10-09 Bottle Rockets: Fin Location V. Altitude:

Hi, Dev, I am guessing that when you say "bottle" rocket you mean the kind made from a big plastic soda bottle, that squirts water, and not the kind of bottle rocket that they sell at fireworks stands

2009-10-07 gluing fins to rocket:

Hello Jason - Using Elmers wood glue take a while. You have to attach one fin at a time and wait for it to set up (about an hour) while watching to make sure it doesn't shift. Then attach the next fin

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