Flight Log - 2013-11-09 - Kirk Greenfield's P.O.N.G. by Custom Rockets

Skill Level 3, probably due to smaller size and paper components. Some difficulty getting white glue to harden fast enough before it soaks into the paper. Construction is still in process.  Why do they not recommend sealing the balsa fins and lug stand-off before attaching to body??? How about shapping or feathering the fins?  Also,  paint the decorative rods black before gluing to the body.  Will have to see how well this unit actually flies, and returns with a streamer. I suspect it's more a showpiece for the mantle than a regular flier!

Flight Date: 2013-11-09
Rocket Name: P.O.N.G. by Custom Rockets
Kit Name: Custom Rockets - P.O.N.G. {Kit} (10043)
Flyer's Name: Kirk Greenfield
Motors: 1/2A3-4
Expected Altitude: 200.00 Feet
Wind Speed: 12.00 mph
Launch Site: Bob Evans Farm, Rio Grande, OH

Made two attempts to flight, and both times, PONG fell to earth without the streamer deploying sufficently to keep it from breaking off a balsa fin.  Two broke the first flight, and an additional 3rd on the next flight. Fortunately, local use of CA replaced each fin as it broke off. Elmers Carpenter/Wood glue was not enough. Perhaps because the base tube was a waxed tube. No filets.

Upgraded to the recommended A3-4 motor and carefully repacked the streamer, which then deployed successfully for two more flights.  Also feel the PONG rocket is more for show on a mantle than repeated flights.

StageMotor(s)
1MPC 1/2A3-M-4

 

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