Most model rockets blast off at a much higher acceleration rate than full size rockets. Is it possible to have model rockets take off slowly to more closely mimic the acceleration speed of full scale rockets?
In: 15
The primary reason model rockets take off so slowly is because they are passively stabilized, whereas full-sized rockets are often actively stabilized. Full-sized rockets that do rely on passive stabilization do need to accelerate more quickly than actively-stabilized rockets do.
Passive stability is achieved using the fins on the bottom of the rocket, similar to the way the feathers on an arrow or a dart help it fly straight. In order to do this, the rocket needs a decent amount of velocity. That’s why model replicas of real rockets still have fins on them.
Active stability relies on being able to move the engine slightly so that the thrust can steer the rocket instead. This is certainly possible to do with model rockets, but it is a lot more difficult than just putting fins on the bottom of the rocket.
As such, model rocket motors are designed to produce relatively high levels of thrust with a short burn time. This gives them high acceleration.
Latest Answers