Estes Alpha III Starter Kit - EST1406

Launches - Updated 6/22/2004 Status: LOST 8/7/2004

  This kit features the tried-and-true Alpha III rocket with bright Orange and Black Decor.
  Assembly is easy with a one-piece plastic swept-fin unit.
  Great performance with parachute recovery for safe landings.
  Recommended for ages 10 and up with Adult Supervision.


SPECS:    Length: 12.25"   
          Diameter: .976"
          Weight: 1.2oz
          Engines: A8-3(first flight),1/2A6-2, A8-5, B4-4, B6-4, B6-6, B8-5, C6-5, C6-7.   


INCLUDES: One Porta-Pad II Launch Pad
          One Electron Beam Launch Controller
          One Alpha III Rocket
          One Instruction/Diagram Book and Literature
          Three Cobra Rocket Engines
          One Set Igniter Pack/Igniter Plugs
          One Recovery Wadding


FEATURES: Pre-colored parts (no painting)
          Colorful adhesive decals Black and White, Orange
          Quick release engine mount
          Safe recovery via 12" parachute (Orange and White)
          Adjustable Porta-Pad II Launch Pad
          Pre-assembled hand-held Electron Beam Launch Controller
          High performance solid propellant engines with tracking smoke
          Complete instructions for easy assembly and launch plus beginner's booklet.
          Reuseable carrying case
          Includes enough supplies for 3 flights


COMMENTS: To fly your rocket over and over, you need only to replace the
            engine, igniter and recovery wadding for each new flight


REQUIRES: Screwdriver       Sandpaper            (4) AA Alkaline Batteries
          White Glue        Plastic Cement       Scissors
          Masking Tape      Pencil

 

 

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LAUNCHES

 
June 21, 2004
A8-3 Engine
Calm winds
Baseball diamond next door

 
Check list complete, prepare for launch!

 
Where'd it go?

Rocket immediatly veered a little, but very slight wind carried it back close. Chute deployed at apogee. Maybe 300 feet high.
 
Good recovery about 20 yards away!

 

 

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Aug 7, 2004
C6-5 Engine
Calm winds
Baseball diamond next door
 
STATUS: LOST this to the tree gods
 

 
The C6-5 engines really cook - don't they?! The Alpha sailed maybe 1400+ feet high? The 12" chute deployed at apogee. Even on light winds, and a little tilt into the wind, the rocket sailed into the oak trees behind the field.
Status: LOST (or "need a new one" :-)
 
Last we saw of our Alpha III: