RC Rockets
RC rockets, also known as model rockets or rocket gliders, are miniature versions of real rockets designed for recreational use and hobbyist enjoyment. Unlike traditional model airplanes or helicopters, which are powered by motors, RC rockets use rocket motors for propulsion, enabling them to achieve vertical takeoffs and exciting flights.
Different Types of RC Rockets
As with any other RC vehicle category, remote controlled rockets, too, come in a number of different shapes and sizes. Here is a short breakdown of the types of RC rockets that are currently available at AT Models:
- Beginner rockets:These are the smallest (and cheapest) kinds of RC rockets you can buy. Launched using low-power motors, they are recommended for beginners.
- RTF rockets:RTF models come in a number of different sizes and power levels, but they have one thing in common: they’re ready to launch right out of the box. This means that you won’t need to do any additional assembly work to put them together.
- Mid-power rockets:These rockets definitely pack a punch, but they won’t fly as high and far as the most advanced models. Recommended for enthusiasts who already have some rocket piloting experience, and want to step their game up a notch.
- Scale rocket models:As faithful recreations of real-life rockets that took to the skies once upon a time, many scale rocket models are true works of art. Make sure you know what you’re doing when you launch them – you don’t want a scale rocket to get damaged as you recreate a scene from the history books!
- Advanced rockets:Those rockets are capable of gliding quite far through the air, and require impeccable skill and precision from the pilot. Most high-powered rockets fall into the advanced category.
How Do RC Rockets Work?
As opposed to RC planes, remote-controlled rockets are launched into the air from a vertical position, just like real-life rockets. Once in the air, they enter a gliding phase where their flight trajectory and direction can be controlled from the ground. But how exactly does the launch mechanism work?
Well, RC rockets use solid rocket motors for propulsion. These motors are available in various sizes and power levels, with each one having different levels of thrust and flight performance.Larger rockets will require a powerful motor capable of lifting up a heavier model, whereas smaller, beginner devices may be launched using less powerful motors. Upon launch, the rocket motor is ignited, which produces thethrust force that propels the rocket vertically into the air.
Many RC rockets also comeequipped with recovery systems to safely return to the ground after the rocket motor's burnout or gliding phase.Some of the most common recovery methods include parachute deployment or helicopter-style recovery with spinning blades.
It isn’t uncommon for RC rockets to “lose” some parts during the flight, or for certain components to get detached during landing. If you’re in need of additional recovery parachutes, igniter plugs, motor adapters, or any otherRC rocket accessory, we’ve got you covered here at AT Models.
Are Remote Control Rockets Suitable for Beginners?
Due to the fact that model RC rockets pose a number of safety hazards, they require a certain amount of skill and experience to safely launch and control. If you’re completely new to the art of launching remote-controlled rockets, we strongly encourage you to perform your first couple of launches under the guidance of someone who knows what they’re doing. Otherwise, you’re running the risk of not only damaging your rocket but also causing some serious harm to yourself and others.
With that being said, some types of model rockets are more suitable for newbies than others. As someone with no prior experience flying them, you might want to look into getting aLevel 1 Rocket before moving on to more advanced models.
Safety Disclaimer
RC rockets offer a unique and exciting experience for hobbyists interested in the thrill of vertical launches and gliding flights. The combination of rocket propulsion and glider capabilities makes RC rockets a captivating and challenging endeavour for experienced RC enthusiasts. As with any hobby involving potentially hazardous materials, it's essential to prioritise safety and adhere to safety guidelines and legal regulations when operating RC rockets.
Finally, keep in mind that depending on your location, there may be specific regulations and restrictions regarding the use of rocket motors and launching RC rockets.You should always check and follow local laws and safety guidelines related to model rocketry.
