August 2005, Issue 181

Flight Computer for High-Power Rocketry

LEVEL 2 CERTIFICATION

The Level 2 certification process begins with a 50-question written exam. I took my Level 2 test a few weeks before the XPRS launch in September, so I was sure I could fly. Passing the written test enabled me to purchase motor reloads in the J, K, and L classes. I selected a J415W for Bootstrap Bill, my PML ARRAM3 rocket with a 54-mm motor mount (see Photo 1).

My plan for Bootstrap Bill was to put it up early the next day. I kept the first flight simple. It was a shakedown flight without a payload. I purchased my J415W reload for approximately $80 and prepped Bootstrap Bill first thing in the morning.

We flew a flag at our camp for Bootstrap Bill’s maiden flight. With cameras rolling, we carted it over to the RSO table, answered a few questions, and then set off to launch pad 22. After Bootstrap Bill was loaded on the launch rod and the igniter was installed, I gave a big thumbs-up to the launch control officer (so many cool titles). Once again, I got the butterflies as I waited for my rocket to take to the sky.

Five, four, three, two, one, launch.

Seeing Bootstrap Bill clear the tower, the sensation of butterflies in my stomach turned into a feeling of joy. The up part, as they say, was not 100%. About halfway into the flight, Bootstrap Bill fishtailed a little, but the event put Bootstrap Bill back in control. I recovered Bootstrap Bill about two miles from the launch pad. I returned to my Tripoli prefect to get my rocket examined and my paperwork signed.