The December 14^th SoAR launch event at Mill Springs Academy began mostly blustery with overcast skies.  Rocket launches started at a slow pace initially, but by noon the pace picked up as youth groups and families arrived to add to the activity out on the launch pads.  The afternoon also brought some sunshine, warming temperatures, and a few breaks from the stiff easterly wind.  Most recoveries were made down the length of the field, although with good launch angle selection and helpful timing of the wind, some rockets were recovered at or very near the launch area. For the day there were 150 total launches.

Terry Bliss supported a steady demand for rocket preparation help and repairs from parents and youth coming out for their first launch.  This greatly helped lessen troubles during RSO flight-ready inspections, with problems out on the launch pads, and more successful recoveries.

Some highlights of the day included the first launch of the day by Tom Thurmond of his battery-powered propeller rocket, that flew successfully and was recovered by parachute.  Also, of special interest were Kevin Scholberg’s Orange Web of Terror that used a cluster of seven motors ignited by a flash pan underneath and his scratch-built Captain America Shield flown with a cluster of three D11-Ps.  Blake Hardegree flew scratch-built Timmy on an E15-7 (rocket and motor supplied by Jorge) for a successful on field recovery. Jeffrey Fellman launched three Estes Super Big Berthas on D12-5s.

Another positive note was how many youngsters and parents expressed their gratitude for the help and encouragement they received from club members throughout the day.  So, a key highlight was how successful and fun the day was considering the weather challenges. Some photos from the event [here].

Motor Ignition Counts:
A – 83
B – 46
C – 18
D – 8
E – 4