External Parts to a Model Rocket

Learning all the different external parts to a model rocket can make building and understanding them much easier. The typical model rocket comes with three external parts that all play a vital role in the flight of the rocket. This article will show the reader the main parts of a rocket and what function these parts have on the flight of the rocket.

Nose Cone - Starting from the top of the rocket we have the nose cone which is specifically designed to reduce drag on the rocket. To reduce the amount of drag on a rocket the nose cone must have a aerodynamic design to cut through the sky. There are many different types of nose cones and each one will respond differently to given conditions. Model rocket nose cones are built from lightweight plastics and in some cases wood.

Body Tube - The body tube is often where much of the cargo and other rocket essentials are carried. The parachute and recovery wadding is stuffed into the body tube and if a model rocket has a payload capsule this is where it is often located. The body tube is also carries an important design which helps the rocket fly. If a rocket's body tube is too short between the fins and the nose cone then the rocket may become unstable during flight. Rocket engines are placed in the bottom part of the body tube and in some cases the rocket engine will fall into the body tube as a recovery system.

Fins - The primary use of the fins is to stabilize the rocket during flight. There are a number of different types of fin designs and when you build your own you have the option to customize them however you wish. These fins are often made from balsa wood which is lightweight, durable and easy to work with.

These three external features of the model rocket work in harmony to make each rocket launch successful. When these three pieces are specifically designed to the weight and length of the rocket magnificent flights can be reached. Play around with the design of the rocket's external parts and see how the rocket responds during flight, you might be surprised what you see.