| | [Not displaying correctly? View web version.] | Apogee Rocketry Workshop #429:
Whether you’re assembling your first model rocket or engineering a high-power rocket for Level-3 certification, there’s one critical technique that ensures success: securing the motor mount assembly inside the body tube. In our latest YouTube video, we demonstrate this foundational skill and show how things can go wrong—so you can avoid costly mistakes and achieve reliably launches. Key Takeaways You’ll Learn: The #1 mistake even experienced builders sometimes make (and how to avoid it) Pro tips for positioning the motor mount at the exact depth required for most rockets How to prevent glue from dripping onto your worktable (and keep your workspace clean) Why internal glue fillets form naturally—and strengthen your rocket—when the technique is done properly Why This Matters: Avoid launchpad failures: A poorly secured motor mount allows the rocket engine to launch through the body tube and destroying your rocket. Universal application: This method works for all rockets, from simple starter kits to advanced high-power designs. Build smarter: Save time, materials, and frustration by mastering this skill upfront. P.S. Don’t miss the innovative solution we use on some of our rocket kits, which really help beginners avoid making big mistakes. | | View this week's Rocketry Workshop Videos here. Tiime: 7:44 min:sec | | Previous videos are found on our archive page. |
| Check out the latest products to hit Apogee's shelves! | Apogee Invicta | |
The Apogee Invicta is a high-power, two-stage marvel designed for thrill-seekers and skill-builders alike. Standing nearly 6 feet tall with a robust 3-inch diameter, this rocket combines laser-cut precision and electronic staging for jaw-dropping air-start flights that will have every video camera on the field pointed at your rocket's launch. Perfect for post-certification enthusiasts, the Invicta offers versatility: fly it as a towering two-stage beast (using motors up to "I" class) or solo with just the sleek upper stage. With rugged through-the-wall fin construction, reusable nylon parachutes, advanced features like removable rivets for easy access to electronics, and an innovative baffle system, it’s built for repeat adventures. Ready to command the skies? Visit Apogee’s website to explore specs, assembly videos, and motor options—your next launch masterpiece awaits! |
| NCR SA-14 Archer XL | |
The iconic SA-14 Archer XL returns, engineered for a new generation of rocketeers! Celebrated since its 1990 debut, this 4" diameter classic soars gracefully, flies straighter, and lands tougher than ever. North Coast Rocketry’s 2025 edition combines decades of passion with cutting-edge innovation, delivering a model rocket built to dominate the skies—flight after flight. Click here for more information. |
| Zephyr Bulk-Pack | |
Here is a 5-pack of the Zephyr rockets, perfect for school groups. This is a great rocket to use for Level-1 high power certification because it is big and robust. It flies low and slow, which helps recovery after the flight, but can still easily take the punishment of high thrust motors. It is simple and easy to build thanks to its highly illustrated instructions. And it uses fool-proof motor ejection, so no electronics are needed. Save money by buying in bulk! |
| G-Flex Thickened Epoxy | |
G/flex 655 Thickened Epoxy quickly builds up thickness and will not run or sag, making it great for fillets on your rocket. It permanently bonds fiberglass, ceramics, metals and plastics. It adheres tenaciously to difficult-to-bond woods including resinous woods and even wet wood. It is also toughened (with rubber addatives) to make structural bonds that absorb the stresses of expansion, contraction, shock and vibration. Check it out here. |
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| | Launch of the Week
Simulate. Launch. Conquer!
Test the Invicta RockSim Design in our 3D Launch Visualizer—no build required! Adjust motors, wind, and angles to predict altitude, stability, and landing zones. Spot recovery risks and optimize flights before liftoff. Optimize your launch strategy—click now to fly virtually and ensure real-world success! Customer Testimonial “We chose to buy from Apogee instead of other vendors because of the depth of build advice and instructional information on your site…the peace of mind in knowing we can build the complex (for us, at least) rocket, and be confident it will work, is more than worth it. Thank you for providing this valuable resource to help keep rocketry accessible and exciting.” -- Andrew | |
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| I'm now actively seeking writers for articles to appear in this newsletter. And I want unique and cutting-edge articles because that is what you want to read, right? I realize this, so to get articles from outside writers that have the same level of quality, I'm going to have to pay a lot of cash to make it worth it for them. So I've come up with a compensation package where I'll pay up to $350 for good how-to articles. Are you a writer, and does that interest you? That is a lot of cash! Far more than you'll get by writing for other magazines. And with over 23,000 worldwide subscribers, if you write for the Peak-of-Flight Newsletter, you'll gain a lot of notoriety. Writing for the Peak-of-Flight Newsletter is a great way to show off your rocketry projects and your technical expertise, at the same time as helping out other rocketeers. Imagine how great you'll feel knowing that you made a difference to the hobby. If you're interested in writing, see the guidelines on our site. | |
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