NEFAR Altitude Records

Multistage Rocket Motors

NEFAR Altitude Records

Rules and Regulations

Effective October 2008, NEFAR has established running altitude records for flights taking place on Clegg Sod Farm.  We hope that this will add a fun challenge to our monthly launches.  The rules for the NEFAR altitude records are listed below.  For the moment the prize for being a record holder is simply pride and bragging rights.  Once your name is entered upon the revered (and virtual) plaque of rocketry heroes it will forever be enshrined there.  For those of you brave enough to do battle with the demons of the air, good luck! 

The altitude records are divided into three categories. 

1.  Single Motor

The first category is "Single Motor".  In single motor all pieces of the rocket must remain attached excepting recovery events (no boosted darts).  Obviously only one motor may be installed in the rocket. 

2.  Cluster Rockets

The second category is "Cluster".   In Cluster any number of motors can be used.  The total installed impulse determines which impulse class the rocket falls under.  The motors may be ignited on the pad or utilize air starts.  All pieces of the rocket must remain attached excepting standard recovery events (no strap on boosters or boosted darts). 

3.  Multi-Stage Rockets

The third category is "Multi-Stage".  In multi-stage any number of motors can be used.  The total installed impulse determines which impulse class the rocket falls under.  The stages may be configured in line or use strap on boosters.  The rocket must function as designed to qualify.  That means boosters must be jettisoned and recovered safely as well as successful ignition of all stages.

 Each category has an A - O impulse class, with cluster and multi-stage being the total installed impulse.  Flyers using EX motors must be able to present verification of the motor's total impulse. The flight must be made by a current NEFAR member in good standing during a scheduled NEFAR launch.  The flight MUST NOT EXCEED the club waiver altitude "window" of 10,000 feet.  The flight must be declared as an altitude record attempt prior to launch.  The rocket must be recovered intact, with all flight events occurring (deployments events, staging, etc.).  The rule of thumb is if the rocket would pass inspection for certification then the flight will be allowed.  The apogee altitude must be recorded by a commercial altimeter with the data being presented to a NEFAR officer for verification after the flight is complete but before the launch is terminated for the day. 

Rev. 8/14/17 JY