rjungcla@cbnewsd.ATT.COM (R. M. Jungclas) (09/26/89)
CALL FOR DISCUSSION For the creation of rec.models.rocket (unmoderated). It is proposed that a newsgroup "rec.models.rocket" be created for the discussion of any aspect relating to model rockets OR high power rockets. The purpose of the this newsgroup would be for exchange of information to anyone wanting TO BUILD, FLY OR USE model rockets or high power rockets. The term "model rocket" is defined based on non-metallic structural components, weight, propellant and total impulse restrictions, electrical ignition, recovery devices and FACTORY-MADE, solid propellant engines. The term "High Power rocket" refers to any rocket using model rocket technology (as described above) except without the weight, propellant and total impulse restrictions of model rocketry. High power rockets have been arround for 10 years, but only popular within the past few years. Both of these forms of rocketry use a "Safety Code" which permits their LEGAL use in all of the states. Model rocketry is also available in Canada, Great Britain, the Soviet Union and other countries. The term "amateur rocketry" refers to all other non-professional rocket activities. Included in the last class, are "basement bombers," any attempts to make homemade engines, and anything using metallic structural parts. Model rockets have been arround for 31 years. Many of you may be aware of Estes and MRC model rockets currently available in most hobby and toy stores or of manufacturers that are now out of business: Centuri, Cox, MPC, etc.. Manufacturers of High Power kits/engines include Lots of Crafts/Precision, North Coast Rocketry, U.S. Rockets, AeroTech and Vulcan. As you may be aware the first commercial launch vehicle launched from Cape Canveral was the LOFT-1. (see Jan or Feb. issue of Science) This was a "high power rocket" as defined above. In addition, off-the-shelf video recorders and custom built video cameras/transmitters have been sucessfully flown. One such flight resulted in a video transmission that was broadcast on live television. Your comments and/or suggestions relating to this newsgroup are welcome. The call for discussion will end on October 14th unless issues and concerns need to be resolved.