The March 11^th launch event at Mill Springs Academy began on a slightly chilly morning with a moderate wind primarily from the west, but as the day progressed the warming sun provided for  a comfortable afternoon.  The wind direction became more variable adding a bit of challenge at times but overall kept most recoveries safely downfield.  Activity on the launch pads was busy during the middle period of the day with thirty participants and 109 total launches accomplished (and one ground test).

Many families were in attendance which added a lot of youthful enthusiasm to every rocket launched and for those more experienced there was plenty of unique events (like chuff-chuff-chuffing and dramatic flight trajectories) to make the day interesting.  Two two-stage launches and recoveries were accomplished successfully by Jim with his Estes Checkmate on a pairing of A10-0 booster to 1/2A3 sustainer and Chris with an Estes Load Star II flown with B6-0 to B6-4.  Xavier Tyx tempted fate with his Estes Mean Machine powered by an E12-4 which achieved an impressive altitude, and then landed gently on the far end of the field to much applause. On a sad note, Dave Fountain’s beautifully constructed and finished Aerotech Strong Arm took a majestic and thunderous ascent on a F24 but came down out of reach and will hopefully be recovered later.

A special thanks to Joe Blanco for making this launch possible by bringing out all the launch and safety equipment while Jorge was away and to Terry Bliss, Tom Thurmond, and Jeff Fellman for supporting LCO and RSO duties.  Another recognition and thanks must go to Chris Lucas who performed many tree rescues in some very prickly situations (putting smiles back on rocketeer’s faces – young and old).  There was also great support for setup and takedown of the equipment which all together helped make this event go very smoothly.

Here are a few photos from the event.

Motor ignition count:
A – 27
B – 33
C – 36
D – 16
E – 2
F – 1