Basic Parts of a Model Rocket

Nosecone and Body Tube

• The nosecone is the tip of the model rocket. The nosecone's aerodynamic, conical design reduces drag. For model rockets with speeds that stay below a few hundred miles per hour, a parabolic shape is ideal. For high-speed rockets, a more slender nosecone is preferable. The body tube is the rocket's main body part; it contains the recovery device and the shock cord. The rocket's fins are attached to the bottom of the body tube; they stabilize the model rocket during flight.

Recovery Device, Shock Cord and Payload

• A recovery device is usually a parachute or streamer that slows the rocket's descent. The shock cord is usually made of an elastic material that connects the body tube and the nosecone; it keeps the model rocket intact during launch and recovery. The recovery device and the shock cord are both inside the body tube. Some model rockets have a payload area between the body tube and the cone; this usually contains a camera or other instrumentation.

Wadding and Launch Lug

• The wadding is a fireproof material between the recovery device and the motor; it prevents damage to the recovery device during launch. It also ensures that the recovery device ejects properly. The launch lug is situated between the wadding and the engine. Its main purpose is to guide the rocket during launch.

Rocket Motor

• The motor is composed of a delay charge, a propellant and an ejection charge. You can find a wide variety of pre-made motors; different motors are suited to different types and sizes of rocket. If a launch is successful, the motor is the only part of the model rocket that needs to be replaced.