Make an air rocket at home … we are a go for launch!
While checking out Steve Spangler’s blog while reading up on the Mentos-pop geyser post, I saw that one of his fun things to do is to make simple rockets with school classes. The instructions are in this PDF file (PVC Rocket Launchers), and while this isn’t a "just whip these up in a second" kind of experiment, they look fun. I think a trip to the hardware store might be in order soon. Looks like the toughest part is making the launcher, but that’s a one-time thing. The rockets seem easy enough that kids can make them. Sounds like summer fun to me!
Making rockets are great because you can talk about pressure, aerodynamics, friction, inertia, lots of fun stuff. When I was a kid I had a bunch of the air-water rockets. These are the kind you put some water in, pump up with a hand-held pump, and launch. Very much, though you do get a might damp.
If you’d like to gear up for summer these books by Janice VanCleave books
Tags: homemade rockets, Steve Spangler, rocketry
3 Comments
I think I’d better not point my husband at your blog. He doesn’t need any more rationalization to purchase things at the hardware store. lol
How much is it worth to you?
I was just thinking … combine this idea with the Mentos-pop gesyer … Pop rocket!
Fun….You bet. But wait till you add an air compressors and 300 screaming grade school kids to the mix. Chaos and Mahem……..www.itsablast.com