Derek’s amazing rocket shot to 121,000 ft. at 2181 MPH and returned safely just 16,000 ft. from the launch pad.

The trick to such a close recovery is use a smaller chute and plan for a rough landing (she peaked at 613 MPH on the return to Earth).

In this case, the only complication was a tight coupler that got a bit wedged at an angle. Nothing the Suburban can’t handle… =)

10 responses to “Qu8K Airframe Separation”

  1. Quick questions – Where is the recovery system located. I do not see it on the diagram.

  2. I think it’s in the payload piston area just below the nose (you can click that diagram to enlarge).

    They used a single Rocketman Ballistic Mach II chute. Here’s a recovery photo with Ky.

  3. I was really hoping for a rocket powered Winnebago.

  4. Couldn’t you use a full size parachute, but wait to open it until you’re close to the ground? Or would that be too risky?

    Might be fun to use a steerable chute with GPS and autopilot to bring the rocket back to a precise point.

  5. > In this case, the only complication was a tight coupler that got a bit wedged
    > at an angle. Nothing the Suburban can’t handle… =)

    I see. Scorched, decapitated, then drawn and quartered.
    You fiendish savages.

  6. heh…. it’s a tough love.

    [http://www.flickr.com/photos/83025347@N00] – Yup, dual parachute deployment is the norm for high altitude flights. My son and I used it when we took this rocket to Mach 2.2, with a minimalist event at apogee, and the main chute popping by onboard computer and CO2 cartridge when the baro sensor reads 1000 ft.

    Our Mach 2 Roar

    [http://www.flickr.com/photos/schnaars] – or rocket-powered Suburban….

    Rocket Truck

  7. This is exciting to see the nano rockets fired off. I have worked with Nano Al rockets since Technanogy in 1999. Hats off to you guys

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