Multi Rocket Launchers

Description: This launch controller is designed for use with low voltage battery igniters that activate rocket engines in model rockets, such as those in the Estes range. The circuit is purely electrical, involving only switches and contacts. It operates on "C" cells, which provide more current than "AA" batteries. The push button switch is rated for contacts of 1 amp or higher. The igniter wire is connected via a 3.5-inch jack plug and socket. To operate, connect the igniter, plug it into the control box, and press the button while ensuring a safe distance. The controller features a single pole rotary switch with 1 amp rated contacts, capable of handling the 400 mA current required by the igniter. Three rockets can be launched by rotating the switch. A green LED indicates continuity between the battery, igniter, and wiring, extinguishing when the launch switch is activated. Safety precautions should always be observed.

The launch controller circuit is designed to facilitate the ignition of model rocket engines safely and effectively. It consists of a power source, typically a battery of "C" cells, which is connected to a push button switch. This switch is critical as it initiates the current flow to the igniter when pressed. The circuit employs a single pole rotary switch that allows the operator to select between multiple igniters, accommodating up to three rockets in this configuration.

The rotary switch is rated for 1 amp, which is sufficient to manage the peak current draw of 400 mA that the igniter requires to initiate combustion. When the igniter is connected to the control box through the 3.5-inch jack, it ensures a secure and isolated connection, minimizing the risk of accidental ignition. The green LED serves as an important indicator of circuit integrity; it confirms that power is flowing correctly to the igniter and that all connections are secure. The LED's extinguishing upon pressing the launch switch signifies that the current has been directed to the igniter, indicating that the launch sequence has begun.

Safety is paramount in rocket launching activities. The controller design emphasizes the importance of maintaining a safe distance from the launch pad during ignition. This precaution is critical to prevent any potential hazards associated with the rocket's launch and flight. The overall simplicity of the circuit, combined with robust components, ensures reliability and ease of use for hobbyists engaged in model rocketry.This launch controller can be used with low voltage battery igniters, which fire rocket engines in model rockets such as the Estes range. These circuits are electrical, only switches and contacts are involved. First the circuit for a single rocket: The only thing to note here is that this controller uses "C" cells, providing more current than "AA"

batteries and that the push button switch has contacts rated 1 amp or higher. The wire to the igniter is isolated via a 3. 5 inch jack plug and socket. Connect the igniter, then plug in to control box and then press button, making sure you are the recommended distance away. Below is an internal and external picture of my controller:- Once again, nothing too complicated. The single pole rotary switch has contacts rated 1 amp so can easily handle the 400 mA of current that the igniter takes.

Here three rockets can be launched by rotating the switch. The Green LED provides continuity between battery, igniter and wiring. This extinguishes as the launch switch is pressed. Once again, observe safety precautions. Heres a story about my own Estes space shuttle, on its one and only mission. This is what happens when you`re too eager to get a rocket flying and don`t pay attention to balance. It was a late November afternoon in 1998 when I first launched the shuttle. Lift off was perfect, no wind, clear skies (doesn`t sound at all like England), and the rocket motor was a C6-5.

At launch, the rocket motor fired, though lift off acceleration was not as good as I expected, I blame too much paint and excess weight). As my rocket reached apogee, (estimated height about 100 meters) and acceleration became zero there was no immediate separation between the shuttle and main fuel tank.

There was of course a delay of 5 seconds between the rocket engine blowing its ejection charge. Five seconds is a long time too wait, especially when the forces excerted of gravity take hold. At 9. 8 meters/second, the rocket plunged towards earth losing at least half its height. Then, thankfully the ejection charge blew, separation was achieved the the main fuel tank with SRB`s drifted slowly down to earth on its parachute. However all was not well with the shuttle. It was only after separation that I realized there was too much nose weight (hence a heavy lift up and not enough height).

The shuttle did glide, but only at about 45 degrees downward, picking up speed until eventually it crash landed in some soft mud. Luckily it survived the impact, I cleaned it up but have not yet removed the nose cone to balance the shuttle.

I like it as an ornament anyway.