Materials. I will use only lightweight, non-metal parts for
the nose, body, and fins of my rocket.
Motors. I will use only certified, commercially-made model
rocket motors, and will not tamper with these motors or use them for
any purposes except those recommended by the manufacturer.
Ignition System. I will launch my rockets with an
electrical launch system and electrical motor igniters. My launch
system will have a safety interlock in series with the launch
switch, and will use a launch switch that returns to the
"off" position when released.
Misfires. If my rocket does not launch when I press the
button of my electrical launch system, I will remove the launcher's
safety interlock or disconnect its battery, and will wait 60 seconds
after the last launch attempt before allowing anyone to approach the
rocket.
Launch Safety. I will use a countdown before launch, and
will ensure that everyone is paying attention and is a safe distance
of at least 15 feet away when I launch rockets with D motors or
smaller, and 30 feet when I launch larger rockets. If I am uncertain
about the safety or stability of an untested rocket, I will check
the stability before flight and will fly it only after warning
spectators and clearing them away to a safe distance.
Launcher. I will launch my rocket from a launch rod, tower,
or rail that is pointed to within 30 degrees of the vertical to
ensure that the rocket flies nearly straight up, and I will use a
blast deflector to prevent the motor's exhaust from hitting the
ground. To prevent accidental eye injury, I will place launchers so
that the end of the launch rod is above eye level or will cap the
end of the rod when it is not in use.
Size. My model rocket will not weigh more than 1,500 grams
(53 ounces) at liftoff and will not contain more than 125 grams (4.4
ounces) of propellant or 320 N-sec (71.9 pound-seconds) of total
impulse. If my model rocket weighs more than one pound (453 grams)
at liftoff or has more than four ounces (113 grams) of propellant, I
will check and comply with Federal Aviation Administration
regulations before flying.
Flight Safety. I will not launch my rocket at targets, into
clouds, or near airplanes, and will not put any flammable or
explosive payload in my rocket.
Launch Site. I will launch my rocket outdoors, in an open
area at least as large as shown in the
accompanying table, and in safe weather conditions with wind
speeds no greater than 20 miles per hour. I will ensure that there
is no dry grass close to the launch pad, and that the launch site
does not present risk of grass fires.
Recovery System. I will use a recovery system such as a
streamer or parachute in my rocket so that it returns safely and
undamaged and can be flown again, and I will use only
flame-resistant or fireproof recovery system wadding in my rocket.
Recovery Safety. I will not attempt to recover my rocket
from power lines, tall trees, or other dangerous places.
