Rocketry Glossary

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Dart

An unpowered vehicle, with the same aerodynamic characteristics as a rocket. A dart is one method of propelling a payload package to a maximum altitude. The dart rides on top of a large booster, possessing a higher coefficient of drag. During powered flight the dart acquires all the momentum of the entire vehicle. As the booster begins to slow during the coasting phase, its greater drag causes it to fall away from the dart which continues to ascend to a higher altitude.


   

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