High power rocketry (HPR) is a challenge and thrill for newcomers to rocketry and those with some rocketry experience.
Learning the basics with low power rockets (LPR – class “E” motors and below), then moving up to mid power (MPR – “F and “G” class motors), before attempting high power rocketry can help ensure success. High power rockets use big motors (class “H” and above) and require advanced construction techniques. Those can be learned with experience on smaller scales, but CORSA can assist you at any level.
HPR systems and payloads can include electronics to control parachute deployment, record altitude and other data, track location, among myriad other applications. The challenges in HPR are limited only by your imagination!
CORSA will help you with Jr, L1, and L2 certifications
We encourage you to attend a club meeting to meet us and ask questions. We can team you with a member who is HPR certified to act as a mentor, if you like.
Certification candidates must first become a member of the NAR. You should then become familiar with the high power rocketry information on the NAR web site. Certification procedures for all levels can be found here. Junior, L1, and L2 candidates must take an online test – study guides and tests are on the NAR.org website.
Getting Started
For the greatest chance for success, a kit designed for certification is your best bet. Check with eRockets in Dayton, or order online from companies like Apogee Components, LOC Precision, Chris’ Supplies, or Wildman Rocketry. The Apogee website has a wealth of how-to videos and articles on rocket construction and many other rocket subjects.
When you have constructed your rocket and are ready to fly, you can make your certification launch attempt with us at our HPR launch site. Contact CORSA ahead of the launch to let us know your intention to certify.
Bring with you the required NAR certification paperwork, and a report from Open Rocket (free) or Rocksim, showing the CP location and the predicted performance. Mark the CP on the rocket, and be prepared to answer questions about the rocket’s construction and stability. Our certification team, including your mentor, will inspect your rocket before and after flight, and complete the paperwork.
High power motors can be purchased directly from one of the local vendors, or you could arrange with a certified club member to acquire a motor. Ordering motors from online vendors can be done, but will require expensive HAZMAT shipping fees. Local vendors are Dayton Rocketry and Merlin Missiles; they each attend many of our HPR launches
Direct your questions to HPR_cert_team@centralohiorocketry.org.
