Manufacturer:Estes
Style:Sport

The Viper: A '70s kit offered to Estes Aerospace Club (EAC) members. It uses T motors. It is a good, economical flier with parachute recovery. The small 12-inch parachute is a good choice for this rocket, since it is limited to A-power only. I wouldn't waste the time using 1/4A motors unless it's extremely windy or you have an extremely small field, the larger motors are so much more satisfying.

This particular Viper was painted with Purple and Orange instead of the Purple and Yellow.  I suppose that was because I had orange dope and no yellow, but that was 35 years ago, who knows?

This rocket was later given my "Iris" modification, which extends the body tube about 5 inches above the streamer / parachute bay, and allows for a payload with an Altimeter One to measure altitudes. With it’s most powerful A motor, I can’t seem to get this above the 200-foot mark. (Iris is named after the Greek god of the rainbow. She is a messenger of the gods, linking the gods with humanity.)  This rocket has flown higher than the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse in NC, the tallest lighthouse in the USA.

Estes Classic EAC Viper
EAC Viper with Iris Payload
Iris Payload on EAC Viper
The Viper, carrying an Altimeter Two, leaves with the help of an A10-3T motor
This stubborn EAC Viper don't care about no winds, it's going up!
The moment of ejection. Remember this view next time you want to skimp on wadding!

 

Flights

 

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