ALPHA III

probably the simplest, most basic model rocket starter sets from Estes. This is the set I started with, and the set everyone I know who has flown model rockets (all three of them) started with.

It's

• cheap (about $35)
• easy to assemble
  • the rocket:
    1. glue the single piece tailfin to the body
    2. glue the engine-holder to the inside of the tube
    3. glue the elastic band to the tube
    4. tie the parachute and elastic band to the nosecone
    5. slap on the decals
    6. glue on the guide-tube (I guess you don't really need this, unless you don't like rockets with highly unpredictable launch trajectories...)
  • The launch pad and ignition system: get a screwdriver and screw together what looks like it needs to be screwed together...
• fun! I mean, really! Once it's done, you get to fire a rocket into the atmosphere!
• the start of an addiction. (the three launches that you will be able to do with the purchase of this set will not be enough...)

ahh.. I will have to buy another set now and start trying to put out my eyes again!