Today was the rocket launch #4, for our family, at the school. We’ve done this a few times already, and it never disappoints. The weather was beautiful today, and the rockets were flying very well.
I’m always amazed at how much smoke they make as they launch. I can’t imagine what it must be like to see a space bound rocket launch. One day we’ll have to get out and see a launch live perhaps.
Our son’s rocket flew perfectly. It went nearly straight up, and then as it started to fall, the parachute was ejected. It floated peacefully unit coming to rest on the top of a fence on a neighboring residence. We walked over and knocked on the door to get permission to retrieve it. Everything worked as planned, and it is ready for another launch.
I’m going to have to order some engines and then set up a time to go and launch rockets with the kids. We have several we’ve acquired over the years, so I think we could have a great time of it. I’d like to create some traditions like this, even if we only do it every other year.
A few years ago we used 2 liter bottles and a bicycle pump to launch rockets at scout camp. I need to figure out what the pressurizing and launching methods look like for that, because it would be a blast as well.
I love seeing the excitement in the kids eyes as they participate in engaging activities. The energy level was high among almost all of the students. One rocket landed on the roof of a house, others lost their parachutes and fell pretty quickly. One poor little guy was looking all over trying to find his rocket. I’m not sure he ever did. We’ve been there before, and that’s no fun. All in all it was a great day, and so much fun to be with the kids.
Adding the Engine 
Final Instructions 
rocket launch 
Here we go 
Almost time 
No Parachute
