The basic phases in the flight of a model rocket are demonstrated with high-speed (slow-motion) video and animation. Introduction This video demonstrates the basic phases in the flight of a typical model rocket. Model rockets are constructed of lightweight materials such as cardboard, balsa wood, and plastic. Model rocketry has a long history as a safe, fun, exciting, and educational hobby for kids and adults. Ignition A battery-powered launch controller is used to provide a reliable and safe method of starting the motor. Model rockets are propelled using real rocket motors. The commercially manufactured motors are safe and inexpensive. Lift-Off! A launch rod or rail keeps the rocket pointed in the right direction until it is moving fast enough for its fins to work. A typical model rocket engine consists of a cardboard tube filled with propellant and capped with a clay nozzle. The propellant contains both the fuel and oxidizer. The burning propellant creates particles which are accelerated out the nozzle. This propels the rocket in the opposite direction. Coasting To allow the rocket to slow down and reach its maximum altitude before the parachute deploys, a slower-burning propellant provides little or no thrust during the delay or coasting phase. Ejection At the top of the motor is a small ejection charge covered by a clay or paper cap. It burns quickly producing a rush of gas which exits the top of the motor to pop off the rocket's nose cone and deploy the parachute. Recovery wadding, usually flame-proofed paper, is placed between the motor and the parachute to prevent the hot gases from damaging the parachute. Recovery The Estes Alpha III rocket in this video uses a small plastic parachute to lower it gently to the ground for recovery. Other forms of recovery include streamer, glide, tumble, and helicopter. After the recovery, the used motor is removed and discarded. A new motor may be installed to fly the rocket again. For more information about model rocketry, please visit OrlandoRocketry.com.