Those coming out to the June Mill Springs launch event found a bit of improvement in field conditions as the Mill Springs landscape service had cleared an area large enough to setup the prep table and tent, the launch control, and the launch pads. Parking and rocket recovery areas remained tall grass, but overall, the main areas where people gathered were much easier to navigate due to the shorter grass.

The June weather was very cooperative with mostly blue skies and mild winds in generally favorable direction to help avoid the trees (at least for the morning hours). There were forty-two participants launching 150 rockets, so indeed the pads remained very busy throughout the morning and tapered off in the early afternoon. Something becoming more common is the use of video cameras. Thirteen rockets took video cameras up with them during the event.

Some of the standouts during this event included Amy Srch’s beautifully finished Estes Space Twister named “The Joker” that was launched on an A8 and a B6 with a majestic spin during ascent. Brandon was impressive with his courage and skill at launching his Estes Doorknob twice on E12s with one flight taking up an altimeter. Leaor also took the risk of launching on E12s with his Estes Astron Explorer, QCC Explorer, and STM-012 – all recovered but with some repairable damage on the Astron.

This was a well-attended event with many family members coming out to support the participants. Thanks are due to Jorge Blanco and Chris Lucas in helping to recover more than a few rockets from tree limbs when possible. Some photos from the event [here].

Engine ignition counts:
A – 34
B – 37
C – 59
D – 15
E – 8
F – 3