Flight Log - 2015-06-07 - Ken E. Coyote's Estes Outlander (Modded fins & 24mm MMT)

Custom modded Estes Outlander. Original was said to be underpowered and have unstable/unpredictable flight.  Since I thought it was an awesomely cool "definitely not 3FNC" design, I went about fixing the said deficiencies.  First I started with a 24mm Motor mount so that I can fly this heavyweight on D12s.  Next I noticed that the "fins" (lander legs) were designed so that they can actually flop around!  Can you imagine a rocket with 4 floppy fins?  I fixed that with added "bushing" spacers using balsa shims and I also notched the end stop a bit so that the fins stay in place on lift off.  Seems to have worked well since first flight was a very good one. I also added 1oz of clay to the nose since I was flying on Ds.

Flight Date: 2015-06-07
Rocket Name: Estes Outlander (Modded fins & 24mm MMT)
Kit Name: Estes - Outlander {Kit} (2110) [2003-2008]
Flyer's Name: Ken E. Coyote
Motors: D12-3
Expected Altitude: 450.00 Feet
Wind Speed: 3.00 mph
Launch Site: Pine Island NY (Metra Rocket Club)
Actual Altitude: 400.00 Feet

Outlander rose up nicely and arched over just a bit and had a good event at apogee.  This time I tried a nomex chute protector since there was so little room to pack chute and barf; however protector was too small and half of the chute lines burned resulting in drag chute recovery.  Recovered with minimal damage.

StageMotor(s)
1Estes D12-3

 

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