Tufts SEDS Rocketry team returned to Kingston, RI for our first launch of the school year! The weather was nearly perfect, with a cloudless sky, warm temperatures, and relatively low wind.
Electrical Lead Bode Wildgrube received his NAR L2 certification following a successful flight of his two-stage rocket. The custom layup carbon-fiber fins held up excellently and the rocket landed in pristine condition. Although the second stage was intentionally inert on this flight, it will go into action on the next one. Meanwhile, another member received their NAR L1 certification on a flawless flight to 2,000 feet with a textbook parachute recovery and no damage of any kind.
Finally, Team Lead Nico Moldovean’s personal project flew on a three-engine cluster to approximately 2,500 feet. Despite one engine failing to light on liftoff, the rocket remained somewhat stable with minor corkscrewing, but the unintentional differential-thrust-induced trajectory change sent it floating downwind into the trees. The fins and airframe appeared to be in good condition, and if the rocket can be recovered, it will fly again on higher-power motors.
The smaller number of rockets at this launch allowed us to refine our launch photography skills and capture some fantastic liftoff pictures. We also gained familiarity with the setup for cluster motors and reinforced fin assemblies, as well as valuable flight experience for homemade composites. We will continue applying the lessons learned to the next round of L1 & L2 certification launches this fall and to the exciting team rocket program!
