Registration

You need to fill out a launch slip for each rocket you will be launching.  If for some reason your rocket does not launch and you remove it from the pad to check everything, you may retrieve your launch slip to use again.  If you are certifying, please make the RSO and LCO aware of this so the appropriate licensed personnel can observe the launch.  The RSO will use a highlighter on the launch slip, but please tell the LCO when you turn in your launch slip.  If this is a "heads up" flight, please also note this in bold letters on the launch slip.

Check in at registration and please sign everyone in who is in attendance whether they are launching or not.  If you will be launching an "E" or higher engine, please pay the appropriate fee at the registration table.  Currently the rate is $10.00 for members and $15.00 for non-members, which covers the entire day.

Launch Procedure

Proceed to the RSO "Range Safety Officer" table when your rocket is ready to launch.  They must inspect every rocket regardless of engine size.  After your rocket has been properly inspected your launch slip will be initialed by the RSO on duty. 

Do Not insert your igniter into the engine, until the range is open for you to place your rocket on the pad.  The table located inside the flags is where the igniter should be installed.  The igniter in rare instances can be set off by static electricity and if installed in an engine could ignite the motor.  Please observe this rule for everyone's sake. 

Altimeters should also only be armed (along with any other electronic devices) while in the flagged area.  Should you need to arm something just prior to launch, note this on the launch slip and also inform the LCO and we will make arrangements for you to enter the range just prior to the launch.

If you are launching an engine size that requires a certification level, please be prepared to show your card to the RSO.  If you are not certified, but are interested in learning how to proceed, please see one of our members during down time (down time is designated as not serving at a post or during the "range open" portion of the launch).  We will be happy to assist you with the proper paperwork and procedures.

The LCO is in control of the launch at all times.  No one is to be on the field unless the range is "open" which will be announced.  When the announcement is made that the range is closed, please proceed to the safety area behind the flags.  If you are returning from retrieving a rocket during the "range closed" time, please walk along the outer perimeter of the field.  Please do not address the LCO when the range is closed, except in the case of an emergency.  The LCO usually has an assistant or companion you may address who will give the LCO a message.  If you spot a plane of any sort that is obviously flying low and in the area, you may shout "plane" at which time we will halt the launch until the plane is contacted and leaves the area.

In the case of a rocket that is possibly landing in an area outside of the closed range field, the LCO will sound a horn over the microphone and yell "heads up".  This is meant for everyone's safety, so please observe the direction of the rocket and leave the possible landing area.  We do not want anyone getting hurt by not paying attention or assuming that they are safely out of range.  The rocket is not safe until it is on the ground.  Please under no circumstances try to catch the rocket.  It is very hot and may harm you.

 Pad Procedure

When the "range open" call is given, please proceed to the prep table and load your igniter or arm any electronics.  You may then proceed to the appropriate pad.  In most cases there will be a "Pad Manager" there to assist you with your rocket.  We have many different size launch rods, so please be sure you have the appropriate size for your launch lugs.  We have a color-coding system for the rods so you can be assured that you have the correct size.  There will be a sign at the pads.  The painted end goes down into the deflector plate.  That will keep all of the burrs and niches on one end.  There is sandpaper to clean the launch rods, tools to alter the angle of the rod, wire brushes to clean the igniter clips, and testing equipment for your use.  If you have a question about the angle of your rod, power to the pad, igniter testing etc., please address the Pad Manager or LCO.  Do not hesitate to ask questions.  We are here to help you.  Please turn in the launch slip to the LCO and advise them what launch pad you are on.  The pads are numbered and if you are unsure, please ask them to check.  Again if this is a "heads up" or certification flight, make sure you inform the LCO.  Please do not hesitate to ask if you need assistance or have questions about your rocket.  We would prefer to help you rather than have your rocket damaged in flight.  We have many members with experience with all types of equipment who will be happy to help you have a safe flight.  Please try to stay out of the photography area during the range closed time as they are taking pictures for the website.

Rocket Retrieval

Please do not attempt to retrieve your rocket until the "range open" signal is given unless the rocket is behind the field.  If you are unable to locate all of the pieces to your rocket, please inform the LCO (during down time and she/he will announce it over the microphone).  We make every attempt to recover all rockets and will assist you if possible.  You may walk back after the "range close" order is given, however please be very observant of the activity on the field and walk only on the perimeter.

Remember that the Jackson Model Rocketry Club was started for the enjoyment of launching rockets and for the education of the members.  We intend to make every launch fun, safe and enjoyable for all of those in attendance.  If you have any comments (positive or negative) or suggestions, please address one of our members after the launch has been completed.

We would like to thank all of our members for attending, assisting and working the launch and to those who are not members we enjoyed your company and invite you to join our club.