I finally launched my Proton rocket, designed after the Russian rocket used to launch a key part of the International Space Station last July. It was my first attempt at a rocket without fins, using small body tubs around the outside to stabilize. (Please refer to my design notes page if interested.) Here it is on the pad (note the Pizza Hut logo).

We have liftoff!

Unfortunately, the design wasn't stable enough. After ~150-200 feet, the rocket started to tumble in end over end (~two revolutions) until the parachute opened and the payload (a film canister with some coins and a streamer) was deployed. Sarah caught it all on videotape, complete with her "Holy crud!" when the rocket started to tumble. I'll post the launch video when I get something to convert to web format.... Anyway, it was fun, but back to the drawing board!

PS-Look how close my launch came to the real Proton's launch and design notes (in Flash)!

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