Quote from Eric Becher on January 13, 2025, 9:10 pm

January 2025 Launch Report

It was a cold day, but actually not too bad. Low winds and sunshine helped. A few folks turned out and enjoyed some nice flying.

Engine totals:

2 – 1/2A Engines
6 – A Engines
13 – B Engines
8 – C Engines
8 – D Engines
7 – E Engines
7 – F Engines
1 – G Engines
Total of 52 engines on 48 flights. (In line with past January launches)
View Launch Statistics

So not a huge crowd, but a pretty good group, and some really nice rockets were flown. Among the nicer ones that I saw (by no means all-inclusive) were Joe’s red “Baby Bertha”, David’s “Gemini Titan” on a 2-engine cluster and “UNHA-9” were both very nice and should be in a museum, Manav’s “Fin Thing” (for lack of a better name), and a few nice ones from Brian C. (as always). Eric had his “Starship” (flying a little squirrely), and the popular “Christmas Tree” (‘cause that’s what you do in January – fly used Christmas Trees!). Not to mention Brian S. and his favorite flying snack “Pringles” on a cool G80. Dan had his usual variety of Rotors, boosters and egg lofters. So there was plenty of eye candy. There were some other nice ones too, but I was busy and didn’t get everyone’s names. Apologies if I missed someone’s pride and joy. Not intentional.

I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the drag race between Brian C. and Eric (aka “me”) with their Estes “Destination Mars MAV.” They just happened to bring the same rocket, and had the same C6-3 engines for them. So it was a moral imperative that they be raced. Eric’s was first off the pad. Brian’s was first to land. Who is then declared the “winner” I leave up to you. (But we all know it was me.😁)

Diptanshu’s ARC team “Mach Lightspeed” was working again and had a few flights. Some better than others, but I think I heard of at least one that was really close to their target. Team “Ad Astra” also launched a test flight, but they will need a little redesign. That’s why we recommend teams fly early and often!

Along the line of helping ARC, Team Mach Lightspeed seems to be having trouble locating F42-8 engines that fit well into their flight profile. If anyone has some in your stash that you can spare, I’m sure a deal can be worked out between you. See Diptanshu at the next launch, or let me know (by replying to the post on the CENJARS forum) and I’ll try to connect you two.

Speaking of helping others, Brian was assisted capably by young Jonah in launching rockets for awhile. Jonah was pushing buttons and thrilled to see the rockets launching. I’m pretty sure that’s how Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos got their start! Next generation Rocketeer?

Rocketship Games was in attendance, which is always appreciated. I think we saw a few kits and engine packs going home! Remember that if you need anything specific, let Joe know through his website and he’ll make sure it takes the trip with him to see us.

Folks have been paying their annual dues, which is appreciated. Remember, you can send the form and a check to Tom, or bring cash or check to the next launch. (Info on the Section Info/Join CENJARS page.) Dues help us to replace or expand equipment, and enable us to launch at demo flights for the local community or Scouts when invited. We don’t need, or ask for much, so please help out if you can.

Plenty of pics and videos in the Gallery. Check them out and add your own if you have some good shots!

Finally, next launch is currently slated for February 2nd, weather permitting. As with last week, check the website for last minute updates. Last week we had to cancel at the last minute (which we try to avoid) due to unexpected high winds. It happens, especially in winter. So it’ll be February. Dress warm, and bring your Valentine out for a romantic day on the field launching rockets! 🥰

Finally, next launch is currently slated for February 2nd, weather permitting. As with last week, check the website for last minute updates. Last week we had to cancel at the last minute (which we try to avoid) due to unexpected high winds. It happens, especially in winter. So it’ll be February. Dress warm, and bring your Valentine out for a romantic day on the field launching rockets! 🥰