Launch Equipment - National Association of Rocketry

HomeLaunch Equipment

Launch Equipment

Model Rocket Launch Pads
Plans and instructions for a 10-pad rack-type launch system with controller were published online by Makezine.

The photographs below show examples of model rocket range equipment such as rack-type pads for multiple launch rods and built using sawhorses or PVC pipe. Most of this equipment is designed and built by individual fliers; few systems are available from vendors, and unfortunately rocketeers are much more diligent about writing up plans for their rockets than they are plans for their rocket launchers!

Mid-Power Launch Pads
Apogee Components published the plans for an inexpensive rail launcher suitable for mid-power and lower-end high-power rockets in their Newsletter Issue #235.

Knight MFG makes heavy duty launch pads suitable for mid-power through low-end high power rockets.

Below are some examples of mid-power range equipment: Larger individual pads for rockets using F through G or H motors that are too heavy to use standard launch rods.

High Power Launch Pads

Giant Leap Rocketry sells some of the key components (rails, rail stops, etc.) for HPR launch systems.

High-power range equipment: Large, heavy launch pads with widely-spread legs or some other very stable base. The pad in the bottom row on the right is a design by John Coker that has drawings in the Related Documents files.