Flight Log - 2014-03-15 - Kirk Greenfield's Alien Invader by Estes

This complete kit from Estes was sold by E-Rockets, and contained everything needed. The plans are clear and demonstrate every step. I did have one or two small questions about which way to face Part N, the wing stablizer when the diagram indicated the lead edge was near the trailing, tapering end. As a result, I may have mounted the small fin backwards, but the entire assembly went well and smoothly.  I am learning that this design has been produced for a while and then possible sold off to another manufacturer, but that's my confusion and no problem with the kit. As winter is upon us, I will not be able to fly this rocket for a couple of months, but I should be able to finish or sand or paint it well in advance.

After solving the Part N question, I tried two separate means of priming the rocket wood. First, I brushed the rear half of the rocket from the side bumps N back with brush on flat gray laytex paint. It dried quickly.  I also shot the top half with while Krylon primer paint, and either got it too thick or didn't let it dry enough before covering the top half with gloss yellow.  That won't seem to dry, and remains tacky.  I sprayed a new flat black finish coat on the rear, and will have to study where and how those decals go on the main tube. I may be sanding the upper tube down to primer again to recoat and let dry again before decals applied.

My wife took one look at the rocket and says "Are you sure that thing will stay together when it flies?"  (Nice vote of confidence there.  My kids bought it for me for Xmas! I didn't...)

Flight Date: 2014-03-15
Rocket Name: Alien Invader by Estes
Kit Name: Estes - Alien Invader {Kit} (1281) [1976-1980]
Flyer's Name: Kirk Greenfield
Motors: B4-4
Wind Speed: 9.00 mph
Launch Site: Bob Evans Farm, Rio Grande, OH

To my surprise, I had forgotten to tie a new chute into the nosecone, causing a salvage of another rocket's 8" chute. This worked in my favor, as the hang time wasn't as long, and the stiff breeze continued to drag the downed rocket along the ground a bit.  Overall, a good flight, and I'll be sure to choose a more calm day with a stronger rocket for the next attemp!

StageMotor(s)
1Estes B4-4

 

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