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Apogee Rocketry Workshop #380:

How to Sand a Wedge Airfoil

Advanced Construction Video

This week's video shows you the technique of sanding wedge shaped airfoils into balsawood fins. This will be useful for you if you are making a scale rocket of something like the NASA sounding rocket called the Black Brant VC, or a Nike Smoke. 

This skill is probably something we'd rate a "Level 4" technique, because it takes a steady hand while guiding the sanding tee, and a set of calibrated eyeballs to spot how much sanding is enough. But we'll also show you a dirty little trick to getting that sharp peak point on the fin that will stand out once you paint the fins. 

View this week's Rocketry Workshop Video (Duration 20 min, 09 sec)

Previous videos are found on our archive page.

 

Tool of the Month Offer

RC Gliding Parachute

Newest Products From Apogee Components

Check out the latest products to hit Apogee's shelves!

Level-2 Rocket

Level-2 High Power Rocket

The 4-inch diameter Level-2 was designed specifically for achieving a Level-2 high power rocketry certification. This is an exceptionally durable rocket because it is made from fiberglass components. That means no more zippers, crunched tubes, nor dinged fins. And it will survive high-thrust rocket motors easily.

This rocket can also be used to introduce flyers to the process of recovery by dual deployment. It has a redesigned and simplified fiberglass e-bay in the rocket, and it includes two each of the parachutes, shock cords, and parachute protectors. All you have to do is add the electronics and mounting hardware.

There is a limited quantity of this kit, so be sure to get one while they are in stock. 

Rocket Ejection Capsules

Rocket Ejection Capsules

These Rocket Ejection Capsules are a convenient solution for dual-deployment of your high power rocket. The canisters provides a reliable and safe method to hold the black powder needed to eject your recovery system, ensuring that you have an optimal flight experience.

The canister has a low current Firewire Initiator installed, with 10-inch long wires that can hook directly into your dual-deployment altimeter. This makes set up easy and quick. Just fill the canister with the appropriate amount of black powder, and snap the lid into place! While not reusable, they are quick and convenient to use. 

Apogee Feathered Flyer Kit

Apogee's Feathered Flyer rocket Kit

The tiny little "Feathered Flyer" is a speed machine that jumps skyward with gusto.

Assembly is quick and easy, making it perfect for less experienced builders or those who want a quick build. The kit is inexpensive and uses affordable 13mm diameter motors, so you can launch it over and over again without breaking the bank. However, be careful with how high it goes, as it can quickly disappear from view. You might want to get two or three because it is a nice inexpensive rocketry gift for those that are just starting out. 

BT-60 Nose Cone and Transition

BT-60 Nose cone and Transition

This is a combination product that includes a BT-60 (41.6mm) diameter nose cone and a 1.2" long transition section that fits the BT-60 tube as well as the BT-55 (33mm diameter) tube. You get both pieces for one low price. They come as a single piece, and you just snap them apart when you are ready to assemble your rocket.

The 3-to-1 ogive shaped plastic nose cone is a perfect upgrade for your model rocket. With its sleek and aerodynamic design, this nose cone will improve your rocket's performance and take your launches to new heights. The included transition section smooths the airflow when your rocket changes from one diameter to another, which lowers the drag. But you can also trim off the shoulders to use it as a boattail or a simulated nozzle on the base of the rocket.

 

 

RockSim Live Training - Every Friday

 

Launch of the Week

Rip a Path Into the Sky

I was out exploring the different club launch sites, and came across Michigan Team 1, which is near the city of Flint.

For our simulation, we've picked theRip-Roar rocket, and launched this two stage rocket on a couple of D12 motors. It is a beautiful launch, landing in the middle of the beautiful field. It is worth the clicks to see the rocket fly here. Check it out now.

Customer Testimonials:

Customer Comments

“Hats off to the people who work at Apogee Rockets! Not only do they maintain a nice web-site, they have the staff to answer questions in real time over the phone. Often, I prefer to call and place my orders. The human experience is paramount in today’s electronic environment. Finally, their shipping procedure is the best. Four stars.”

--   Reggie Morrow

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