Introduction:

I have been fascinated with model rockets ever since I was in the USA where everything is legal and easily available. There are many school based Rocket Clubs. I have always wanted to duplicate Model Rockets in India. However because of Government regulations the much needed items are not freely available. For example: Potassium Nitrate, Carbon, Sulphur, Nichrome Wire etc. There is also the scarcity of fair sized grounds to experiment or engage in this hobby. Plus the laws are not clear and one could always run into trouble with the security people. Despite the threats from extremist activities, I believe that experiments must go on at the school and college level taking into consideration various safe guards.

Recently, I had the good luck to mentor an Engineering College Project where a team was to develop a two stage rocket. After a lot of experimenting and firing about 36 rockets of various types the 4 man team was finally able to get it right. What a wonderful result after painstaking construction and shooting of rockets in near secrecy far from the madding crowd. Seeing these model rockets zoom to 600 feet and then return to mother earth is a fascinating experience that has caught even the attention of the workers engaged in working in the paddy fields.

Using Diwali Rockets, Balsa Wood and Glue we have designed AKSHAY-1, India’s First , Single Stage Model Rocket where we offer the complete plans. You can make it in about 2 hours and launch it in a small school ground taking into consideration the basic precautions. You can either set it going with a match stick or cigarette lighter or you can set up a remote control electric ignition take off using batteries, electrical wire and a simple launching pad made out of a Bournvita Tin and a metal rod to function as the Guide Rail. With AKSHAY-2, you can also do a two stage separation. Please see pictures and video attached at the bottom of this page.

Now that you are hooked, please check out these websites to understand more about the Construction and launching of Model Rockets.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Model_rocket

In this class we will cover the following with to respect to AKSHAY-1. We are sure that your students will enjoy this exciting project.

Teachers agree that model rocketry is an exciting, learning tool. Here are just a few of the many benefits.

• A "hands-on" learning experience !
• Real connections between theory and hands-on applications in science, math, physics, and technology.
• Unique learning opportunities for students who have become disinterested in traditional school activities.
• Gain experience in designing, conducting and reporting basic experimental investigations.
• Development of greater awareness for safety and attention to detail.
• Improvement of spatial relations and conceptual thinking skills
• Create interest in your students to pursue engineering and science studies.
• Having a memorable and positive experience during the learning process.

MODEL ROCKET CONSTRUCTION & LAUNCH PICTURES