Astron Ranger

Thursday, 13 May 2000
This is my first "kit-bash". It is basically a Big Bertha that has been modified. The plans for building a Ranger can be found at the JimZ Site. The "official" modifications include replacing the single 18mm engine mount with a three 18mm cluster, and cutting the body tube and installing a solid coupler to create a payload section. While I was at it I installed engine hooks.
Tuesday, 6 June 2000
I finally got the bulkhead and recovery system installed last night. All systems are now go.
Saturday, 10 June 2000
I eneded up painting this rocket with a "Stars an' Stripes" motif. I think it turned out great, if I do say so myself. I used little star stickers as masks to create the white stars on a blue field effect, and regular old transparent tape to mask off the stripes. I'll try to get a picture up to show what I'm talking about.

Ranger Flights (3)
Date Flight #Motors Motor ISP Description
7/8/2000 48 3 B6-4 15 Fantastic flight, high straigh boost. Could use a longer delay. Melted a good portion of the chute but survived the landing.
7/5/2003 62 1 B6-4 5 Another one engine ignition. Hung on the controller wire and plopped down on it's side with motor still burning. No damage.
8/9/2003 72 3 B6-6 15 Nice flight.

Total ISP: 35 newton-seconds

Average ISP: 11.67 newton-seconds

Ranger Flights (3)
Date	Flight	#Motors	Motor	ISP	Description
7/8/2000	48	3	B6-4	15	Fantastic flight, high straigh boost. Could use a longer delay. Melted a good portion of the chute but survived the landing.
7/5/2003	62	1	B6-4	5	Another one engine ignition. Hung on the controller wire and plopped down on it's side with motor still burning. No damage.
8/9/2003	72	3	B6-6	15	Nice flight.

Back

Total ISP:	35 newton-seconds
Average ISP:	11.67 newton-seconds