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Rocket Derby Rules Event Rules
Space Derby
OFFICIAL RULES
-All rockets must pass the following inspection to qualify for the race:
-Only basic materials supplied in the kit may be used.
-The rocket body may be no longer than 7 inches, not including the propeller and fins.
-There are no restrictions on the weight or design of the rocket.
-No more than two rubber bands should be used. Despite the fact you can use up to four, using more than two tends to cause a lot of knotting and breakage. So stick with two.
-Lubricating the bands is recommended but rather than use any type of oil, instead use BABY POWDER. This seems to work much better to deter friction and eliminate over-elasticity.
Tips for Rocket Builders
-Reduce air friction or "drag" by making all surfaces as smooth as possible. A blunt, rounded nose causes less drag than a sharp nose. A good design has all leading edges rounded and trailing edges tapered to reduce the drag.
-Rubber bands should be lubricated before the race. They are the "motor" and must be strong and flexible.
-Use a sharp knife for cutting the grooves for the hanger fitting and fins. A dull knife will crush and splinter the balsa wood.
-When you start to carve, remember that the end with the small hose is the rocket nose.
-A potato peeler is good for carving the shape.
-To help increase the rocket's speed reduce the wall thickness to a minimum of 1/8 inch. Do not weaken the area around the hanger (carrier) or carve away the nose button circle.
-Do not apply too much paint to the outside unless you sand between each coat.
-Be careful not to get glue on the plastic carrier, especially in the holes through which the monofilament line runs. Glue can interfere with smooth operation.
-Make the propeller shaft as short as possible by bending it close to the prop. Cut off the excess wire with wire cutters.
-Test the rocket's balance by hanging it from a string through the hole of the hanger fitting. If the rocket is nose-heavy, carve or sand a little wood off of the end. It it's tail-heavy, remove wood from the tail area.
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