You are here:
Model Rocketry/Expert Profile
Expertise
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.
Experience in the area
I make my rockets from existing kits or parts readily made through commercial channels. I do NOT make my own motor propellants (they are challenging enough even for the companies that do this for a living), and I do not advocate making rockets using "typical household item" such as paper towel rolls.
Average Ratings
Recent Reviews from Users
K = Knowledgeability C = Clarity of Response P = Politeness| User | Date | K | C | P | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Libby | 01/13/12 | 10 | 10 | 10 | Wow! Thanks so much. You were very ..... |
| Joshua | 03/10/11 | 10 | 10 | 10 | Can't believe how fast my questions were ..... |
| dan | 08/21/10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | Super knowledge in field. Got my question ..... |
| Kerry | 08/26/09 | 10 | 10 | 10 | Thanks a million! Great info. and great ..... |
| Eric Wichman | 06/01/09 | 10 | 10 | 10 | Thanks James! I appreciate the answer. The ..... |
Recent Answers from James Bell
2011-12-14 Model Rockets and Fins:
Libby - You've asked a lot of good questions, and I shall try and answer all of them. Many of the questions you ask deal with basic rocket design. I would suggest you get a copy of THE HANDBOOK OF
2011-09-08 Back in 76 u could go to a hobby shop and see really advanced rockets. The andromedone,Moonlander with shock exsorbers and more.Now days all i see is boring 1,2 stage rocket at the stores.What gives and where can i go in NE Tex. to see advanced estes rock:
John - Although Estes is probably the most well known maker of rocket model kits, there are definitely other companies out there that have more exciting stuff (E, F & G), and make the jump into the
2011-05-27 rocket igniter position:
Veeru - The first one, from Purdue University, is looking at high-end motor designs for NASA-grade use. The schematic refers to "thrust vectoring actuators" that you would find on the solid rocket
2011-05-06 rocket igniter position:
Veeru - I'm not exactly sure of what you are describing. I am familiar with two types of igniters, but of which are inserted via the exhaust nozzle. The first is your Estes type motor, which is a
2011-04-05 Making Deployment Charges:
Justin - Sorry for my delay in responding. I would suggest you visit the site for Public Missiles Limited: https://blastzone.com/pml/ Take a look and see what products the offer. You will get
©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.