How to Build a Rocket

Typically, rockets are associated with complicated space projects. Hence, it is a general belief that it is unusually difficult to build these objects of fantasy. On the contrary, rockets can easily to build at home. In fact, the entire rocket-building process is a rewarding experience, especially if you are doing it with your children. Here is a step-by-step procedure of how to build a rocket at home.

What is a Rocket?

A rocket is basically a cylinder with a nose and fins. So, the first thing that you need is cylindrical object. A film canister can is a good option; a small plastic bottle or a container can also be used. For the nosecone, you can either use cardboard or thin sheet of plastic.

Steps to Build a Rocket

Draw a circle on the plastic sheet and cut out the circle. Mark the center point on the circle, and from it draw two lines at an angle to 90o to each other. Cut out the pie that you have made in the circle, and fold the remaining circle into a cone. With the help of glue or tape, paste the nosecone on the top of the rocket.

Now, for the fins, you can use plastic sheet, cardboard or Balsa wood. If you are using the wood, sand the fins to make them as smooth as possible. Paste the four fins using glue or tape. To make your rocket attractive, paint it with attractive colors. At the end of this step, the basic structure of the rocket would be complete.

We now have to work on the mechanism that will propel the rocket high up in the air. There are two methods to launch the rocket. If you have used the film canister can for the body, then turn the rocket upside down, and fill half of the container with water. Add one Alka-Seltzer pill and close the lid immediately. Keep the rocket upright; within a few seconds a small explosion will occur and the rocket will shoot up into the air. For better results, you can use Pepsi or Coke and Mentos candy.

The second method to propel the rocket is bit more technical. In this case, the engine is attached to the rocket together with the ignition system. At the tip of the nose cone, a parachute is also fixed so that the rocket returns back to you. As soon as you fire the ignition system, the rocket shoots up, the parachute open and it slowly descends down.