Water Rockets
Leveraging the Scout theme of thriftiness, we build rockets from 2-liter bottles and launch them with water and compressed air created with bicycle pumps.
Leveraging the Scout theme of thriftiness, we build rockets from 2-liter bottles and launch them with water and compressed air created with bicycle pumps.
12:30pm to 2pm at Oak Ridge Park, 1598 N. Cummings LN, Washington
The pack has a set of launch platforms designed to hold, fill, and propel 2-liter plastic bottles skyward using water and air pressure. The objective is to build a rocket that fits the launch pad mechanism and holds together well enough to be used more than once.
Scouts can bring as many rockets as they want to test – we’ll have multiple launchers to make sure everyone has plenty of attempts! THIS IS ALSO A GREAT RECRUITING EVENT TO BRING FRIENDS WHO ARE INTERESTED IN JOINING THE PACK!!!
Fabricate and decorate however you like as long as you keep a 1-1/2" clearance from the bottle opening. That’s where the latch holds the bottle before launch (see picture). Build the basic structure using the example links below. Add fins, a nosecone, parachute, plenty of decorations - whatever you like. Fins are highly recommended for a more predictable flight and a nosecone to absorb the impact of landing improves your chances of flying more than once.
NOTE: Only 2 liter bottles will fit properly on the launch pads. Smaller bottles such as flavored water or 20 ounce bottles don't work on this system.
Example links:
https://www.instructables.com/id/How-To-Make-A-Bottle-Rocket/
https://sites.google.com/a/bcsemail.org/wdstem/phase-ii/water-bottle-rockets
http://www.science-sparks.com/making-a-bottle-rocket/
Here is a great all-in-one document with a lot of detail and fin templates: Water Rockets with Fin Templates PDF
You must keep the bottom 1.5" clear of all materials and decorations in order for the mounting clamp to fit properly and maintain a tight seal for pressurization and launch.