Instructables.com. - Backyard Rockets: Learn to Make and Launch Rockets, Missiles, Cannons, and Other Projectiles

Backyard Rockets

Edited by Mike Warren

Copyright 2013 by Instructables.com

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Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data is available on file.

ISBN: 978-1-62087-730-2

Printed in China

Disclaimer:

This book is intended to offer general guidance. It is sold with the understanding that every effort was made to provide the most current and accurate information. However, errors and omissions are still possible. Any use or misuse of the information contained herein is solely the responsibility of the user, and the author and publisher make no warrantees or claims as to the truth or validity of the information. The author and publisher shall have neither liability nor responsibility to any person or entity with respect to any loss or damage caused, or alleged to have been caused, directly or indirectly, by the information contained in this book. Furthermore, this book is not intended to give professional dietary, technical, or medical advice. Please refer to and follow any local laws when using any of the information contained herein, and act responsibly and safely at all times.

Introduction

Conversion Tables

The backyard is where all the cool projects happen. Projects where things might start on fire, move at high speed, make loud noises, or otherwise jeopardize the safety of grandmas heirloom crystal collection are some of the most fun builds you can do. But they have to be done outside, and ideally near a first-aid kit. Which is why, for me, the backyard has always been a place where large (and occasionally dangerous) projects get their time to shine.

In Backyard Rockets, we celebrate the courage, skill, and ingenuity that comes with firing projectiles into the air without an advanced degree in aeronautical engineering. You dont need to be a rocket scientist to try out any of the DIY rocketry projects in this book, but we wont hold it against you if you are.

Professionals, amateurs, students, and just plain pyromaniacs have all contributed projects to Instructables.com, and weve made this collection of the best rocket projects on the site. Youll find simple projects to get started in your backyard, and weve included a few that you might consider trying a few miles outside of town.

Weve curated the projects in this book to get you started with beginner rocket projects like stomp-rockets (page 24), all the way to more complex projects like rockets with an in-flight camera (page 183). Whether youre looking for a low-tech project for a weekend kids birthday party or a big build using all kinds of components, Backyard Rocketry has a project for you.

What are you waiting for? Get making, and transform your quiet yard from a place to relax to a live testing field where rockets can blast off and reach for the sky. No matter what your technical level youre sure to find a fun project here to satiate your rocket appetite, just remember to bring a fire extinguisher in case theres an accident and you need to scrub the launch.

Mike Warren

Editor, Instructables.com