Captain Danger’s Weblog

Location:  Pawnee National Grasslands (North Site)

Date: May 5^th 2007

Mission:  Level 2 TRA certification flight

Rocket name:  Talon 4

Mission Profile:  Launch on proven launch vehicle with a Aerotech J-800 rocket motor using dual recovery for the purpose of Tripoli high power certification.

Mission results:  The launch was near perfect with a slight spin to the rocket.  Deployment was late (drogue charge fired but did not deploy chute) The main fired during descent at approximately 500 mph deploying both the stunt monkey and the main parachute.  The G-forces were too much for the recovery harness and the booster section along with the drogue parachute detached and landed with out the aid of any recovery mechanism.  The nose cone and electronics section were recovered unharmed.  The booster section was recovered with the use of a bucket and shovel.  Capt Danger returned to earth some distance away near an antelope skull.  He was visibly shaken but suffered no visible damage.  The antelope skull was taken back for pond ornamentation. 

Mission Status:  The launch was a failure.  The rocket booster section was a total loss except for the fins which will be used later for another rocket.  The e-bay and parachutes are intact and will be used for another vehicle.           

Capt. Danger remains enthusiastic and eager to fly after this failure.  He shows excellent aptitude to working in a high stress environment.