The Alpha: What can I say? Ask anybody, they probably have one or two. This was built from the original 1974 kit, bundled with the starter kit / launcher for about $14 and some change. I ordered it when I was 13 yrs. directly from Estes mail order, sending bills and change in an envelope without telling my parents because I was too afraid they would say I couldn't get it. It's always easier to get forgiveness than permission! It was a rugged, good flyer. It has since been moth-balled, the shock cord is rotted. I restored it to flying contidion one day when I was bored. It received a new Kevlar shock cord mount and a better plastic parachute with longer shroud lines. I also added a small payload section to the top, making this rocket 2-1/4" taller and 5 grams (0.176 oz) heavier. I flew it with an A8 on a windy day, and I was suprised how straight it flew, reaching 210 feet apogee and going up to 71 mph (104 ft/sec.). Can't wait to try this on a B or C this weekend!
| Flight Date: | 2014-03-09 |
| Rocket Name: | Alpha |
| Kit Name: | Estes - Alpha {Kit} (25) [1966-] |
| Flyer's Name: | Rich DeAngelis |
| Motors: | B6-4 |
| Expected Altitude: | 484 Feet |
| Wind Speed: | 10.00 mph |
| Launch Site: | Penn Manor School Lancaster PA |
| Actual Altitude: | 540 Feet |
This flight was to be the second B6 motor test for the Alpha Iris. The liftoff was spectacular and seemed very fast, heading skyward without much concern for the stiff breeze. I apparently did not concern myself with putting in too much wadding, as three squares apparently was not enough.
Alpha reached a top speed of 122 mph, and a best-yet altitude for the B6 of 530 feet. It came down somewhat fast and with a spiraling parachute. Upon recovery I found three of the six shroud lines separated from the plastic. They were not ripped, but had burned ends. It landed far downwind about 400 feet away, with no other damage.
Distracted by a strong wind gust that blew a lot of my equipment under the car, I cleared the altimeter before recording the flight data, so I will need to re-fly this mission. Mistakes were made. No further comment.
| Stage | Motor(s) |
|---|---|
| 1 | Quest B6-4 |
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