This is a small beginner model rocket, called Pathfinder. It is designed to fly on standard 18mm model rocket motors.
Additional required materials:
CA glue
2 foot long plastic streamer
4 feet of Kevlar thread
Aluminum foil tape
Printer Brand:
Prusa
Printer:
Rafts:
No
Supports:
No
Resolution:
0.1mm
Infill:
30%
Notes:
It is recommended to print all rocket components using PETG. All components are able to be printed without support material. The Top Solid layer, Bottom Solid layer, and Perimeter Shell settings were set at 3 with a 30% rectilinear infill.
Assembly
Line the inside surface of the body with aluminum foil tape. The tape should reach from the end of the motor to just before the shock cord mount. This will prevent the motor ejection charge gases from melting the body. 4 feet of Kevlar thread is recommended for the shock cord. Tie one end of the shock cord to the integral mount on the inside of the body. Glue the nose shoulder into the nose cone with CA glue or similar, and tie the other end of the shock cord to the mount on the nose shoulder. Attach the streamer to the shock cord approximately 1 foot behind the nose cone.
Flying
An early version of this rocket was test flown on an Estes A8-3. Other motors may be used, but have not been tested. The updated version of the rocket presented above includes improvements for printability, along with a slightly increased length. These changes are not anticipated to greatly affect how the model flies.
Insert the motor into the end of the rocket, followed by the motor retainer. Twist the retainer clockwise to lock it in place. Place 2 to 3 sheets of loosely packed recovery wadding into the body tube, followed by the folded streamer and nose cone. The rocket is now ready to fly!
