For anyone growing up in the latter half of the twentieth century, rocketry and the space program have had a tremendous impact on all our lives. From the thrill and pride inspired by the Apollo missions and the Space Shuttle missions of today to the fear and awe generated by modern intercontinental ballistic missiles and cruise missiles to the utility of satellite payloads that have given us the modern convenienes of satellite television, cell phones and pagers, rocketry has had a significant impact.

Many a NASA scientist got started in the space business through the activity that has become model rocketry. In fact, many NASA scientists still enjoy the hobby.

Model rocketry can be as simple as the ESTES rocket that you launch in your local field or playground to the high performance rockets that soar to tens of thousands of feet and require FAA approval for launching.

HOW DO I GET STARTED?

Learn about the hobby: Drop by the store and we will explain to you the kits available to get started. While you are here, pick up a magazine and read about the world of model rocketry. Finally take a look at our links section and visit the rocketry web sites to see what the pioneers in the world of rocketry are doing.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How high do they fly?
Beginners rockets fly anywhere from a few hundred to several hundred feet. High powered rockets for advanced modelers can reach altititudes of over ten thousand feet.

Where is the nearest club?
In Maine contact Pine Tree Rocketry, Michael Dow, RR #1 Box 323, Millbridge ME 04658, (207) 546-2578.

Can you launch payloads in rockets?
Yes -- there are many rockets that allow you to experiment with launching payloads. In fact, some rockets even have built in cameras to take pictures during the flight. Some modelers have expanded the concept of taking pictures in flight to broadcasting movies from the rocket during its flight. Click here for an example of one such video.