Check the calendar for the latest updates to the launch schedule.
General Launch Information
- Our launches are open to the public; both club members and nonmembers are welcome to come spectate and fly. Spectating is free; check out this page for more information on what it’s like.
- All launches have a model rocket launch area designated for the operation of flights containing up to G size rocket motors.
- Certified launch days follow the Tripoli High Power Safety Code. Members of both the Tripoli Rocketry Association and the National Association of Rocketry may fly high power rockets to the extent of their certification level, provided that proof of certification is shown at registration. We offer memberships in both national organizations on-site, as well as Indiana Rocketry memberships.
- Research launch days follow the Tripoli Research safety code. To fly high power rockets (H motors and above) on research days, you must be a member of the Tripoli Rocketry Association and certified to the appropriate power level. In addition, research motors may only be flown by those certified to TRA Level 2 or higher.
- Level 1 and Level 2 certifications for both TRA and NAR are available at our launches. For level 2 certifications, consult with our prefect ahead of time to make sure the appropriate written test is available.
- Our club has two TAP members and one L3CC member to enable Tripoli and NAR Level 3 certifications, respectively; contact them for more information.
- The fields can be wet and muddy. Wear proper footwear and appropriate clothing.
- Please pick up your trash and take it with you. We place a small bin at each of the model rocket pads in which to dispose of used igniters and plugs; please use it and help keep the field clean!
- Please supervise your child (or anyone who is acting like one) and be sure they understand the safety rules.
IMPORTANT: Please be respectful of the landowner’s property at all times. They have allowed us to use their land to fly rockets, and we need to be sure and minimize our impact on their business.
Drive slowly when approaching the launch site to avoid throwing gravel onto parked cars and attendees; relax, you’re already there!
LAUNCH CAPABILITIES
- Operations under our FAA waiver are cleared to 16,000′, with on-demand windows to 22,000′.
- 12 Pads for Model Rockets (1/4A – G) – 1/8”, 3/16” and 1/4” rods.
- 12 pads for High Power Rockets (H – J) – rail buttons preferred, rods up to 1/2″ available. Standard equipment on these pads are 8′ 1010 (1/4″, standard 1″ extrusion) rails.
- 6 pads for High Power rockets (K – M) – rail buttons preferred, rods up to 1/2″ available. Standard equipment on these pads are 8′ long 1010 (1/4″, standard 1″ extrusion) and 1515 (5/16″, extreme 1.5″ extrusion) rails.
- 1 extreme pad and 1 tower trailer for large projects (M – O). Each of these pads is equipped with a 1515 x 12′ rail. A tower trailer with a 24′ rail is also available with one month’s advance notice.
LAUNCH PROCEDURE
- Register at the registration table. Pay your launch fees and sign the daily flight waiver form. You will be asked to show your valid TRA or NAR card if you are flying high power (Level 1, 2 or 3).
- Fill out your flight card.
- Prepare your rocket (without igniter) and bring it to the rocket safety check for inspection.
- Following safety check, take your rocket to the LCO/Pad Manager desk for information on the status of the range and appropriate placement locations for your rocket.
- When given the okay by the LCO, take your rocket to the assigned pad, put it on the rod/rail, install the igniter, test the leads for no current, attach the leads to the igniter, and check the continuity.
- Walk back to the flight line and give your flight card to the LCO/Pad Manager.
- Wait for your flight to be announced.
- For all certification flights, check with the certifying authority before the launch proceeds.
- After your flight, if your rocket lands within the controlled range space, wait for the LCO to open the range prior to recovering.
DAILY LAUNCH FEES:
| Low & Mid-Power
1/4A-G |
High Power
H and above |
|||
| Non-Member | Member | Non-Member | Member | |
| Under 18 | Free | Free | – | – |
| 18 & over | $10 | $5 | $15 | $10 |
Note: there is a family cap of $25 for launch fees; no family, regardless of age, number of fliers, power level, or membership status will pay more than $25 to fly.