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Peak-of-Flight Newsletter #645:

How to Scale Model Rockets with an Image Editor and RockSim

Peak-of-Flight Newsletter

Ever stared at a rocket photo—real or sci-fi—and wondered, “How do I turn this into a flyable design?” When blueprints don’t exist, RockSim transforms imagination into precision. Our new article, “How to Scale Model Rockets with an Image Editor and RockSim,” equips you with pro techniques to:

  • Scale any image into accurate RockSim dimensions—no ruler required.
  • Extract fin shapes, nose cones, and graphics using free tools like getPaint.net.
  • Create custom decals directly from your design files.
  • Simulate stability, altitude, and recovery to ensure your vision flies flawlessly.

RockSim isn’t just software—it’s a rocket scientist’s superpower. As Mike Giese (Battle Creek, MI) shared in a real testimonial:

“I do rely on RockSim to design my rockets… I actually like to buy parts and build my own designs. When I started building rockets back in the 70s, all I had was the library for reference. I built some nice rockets back then, but not all were safe for ‘local launch”…

RockSim lets you test your ideas before they hit the pad.

Whether you’re cloning a historic rocket or engineering a starship, image editing as discussed in this article paired with RockSim turns “What if?” into “Watch this!” Download the full article here to unlock next-level builds—and launch confidence.

Cupids Arrow rocketsAlso in this issue: FREE PLAN - Cupid's Arrow

Launch Love into the Skies with Cupid’s Arrow!

This Valentine’s Day, ignite hearts and engines with the most adorable rocket in the galaxy—Cupid’s Arrow! Designed to pierce the clouds (and your sweetheart’s heart), this whimsical model features a heart-shaped nose cone that’s guaranteed to make every launch a love letter to the skies.

Why Build Cupid’s Arrow?

💘 Spread the Love: Trade roses for rocket fuel! Launch it solo to declare your passion from the stratosphere, or build it with your valentine for a date night that’s literally out of this world.
💘 Uniquely Adorable: With its arrow-inspired design and cheeky heart tip, it’s the perfect blend of romance and rocketry. Bonus points for decorating it in pink, red, or glitter—because love should sparkle!
💘 Free to Fall For: No strings attached! Our FREE build plan lets you celebrate Valentine’s Day without spending a dime (save your cash for chocolates… or more rocket kits).

Perfect for:
✔️ Secret admirers wanting to “send a sign” (hint: aim for their backyard).
✔️ Parents/kids crafting a galactically cute Valentine’s project.
✔️ Hobbyists ready to add a little heart to their launch lineup.

How to Get It:
Download the newsletter now for the free plans and build your very own Cupid’s Arrow before February 14th! Whether you’re wooing a crush, surprising your partner, or just celebrating your love of rockets, this build is guaranteed to make hearts soar.

❤️ Because nothing says “I love you” like a rocket screaming “LOOOOVE” at 500 feet. â¤ï¸

PS Don’t forget to tag us in your launch photos—we’ll feature the most romantic flights in our next newsletter! 

Read the rest of this week's article, either on a downloadable PDF for printing out, or on our website (great for viewing on your phone)!

Previous issues of our newsletter are found at our archive page.

 

Free Fin Alignment Guide

Download the free plan

 

Newest Products From Apogee Components

Check out the latest products to hit Apogee's shelves!

NCR SA-14 Archer XL

NCR SA-14 Archer XL

The iconic SA-14 Archer XL returns, engineered for a new generation of rocketeers! Celebrated since its 1990 debut, this 4" diameter classic soars gracefully, flies straighter, and lands tougher than ever. North Coast Rocketry’s 2025 edition combines decades of passion with cutting-edge innovation, delivering a model rocket built to dominate the skies—flight after flight. Click here for more information.


Zephyr Bulk-Pack

Bulk-Pack of Zephyrs

Here is a 5-pack of the Zephyr rockets, perfect for school groups. This is a great rocket to use for Level-1 high power certification because it is big and robust. It flies low and slow, which helps recovery after the flight, but can still easily take the punishment of high thrust motors. It is simple and easy to build thanks to its highly illustrated instructions. And it uses fool-proof motor ejection, so no electronics are needed. Save money by buying in bulk!


G-Flex Thickened Epoxy

G-Flex Thickened Epoxy

G/flex 655 Thickened Epoxy quickly builds up thickness and will not run or sag, making it great for fillets on your rocket. It permanently bonds fiberglass, ceramics, metals and plastics. It adheres tenaciously to difficult-to-bond woods including resinous woods and even wet wood.

It is also toughened (with rubber addatives) to make structural bonds that absorb the stresses of expansion, contraction, shock and vibration. Check it out here.

 


 

RockSim Live Training - Every Friday

 

Launch of the Week

Cupids Arrow from Valentine, Nebraska

Something’s seriously off with this simulated launch of the Cupid’s Arrow rocket—but the issue isn’t the rocket itself, which flies as straight as its namesake. No, the problem lies in the simulation, and we’re challenging you to figure out what we messed up!

This issue's free Plan in the Peak-of-Flight NewsletterCupid’s Arrow is a Valentine’s Day-themed launch, blasting off from Valentine, Nebraska. But here’s the twist: We’ve intentionally built a glaring safety code violation into the setup. Can you spot it?

Dive into the simulation, pinpoint the mistake, and share your findings on our Facebook page. Explain what’s wrong and how to fix it, and your reward will be sharper skills for safer, more successful launches. Ready to play safety inspector? Let’s see if you’ve got the eye!


Customer TestimonialCustomer Comments

“I've been shopping from Apogee by phone or remotely for a few years now. But when in Colorado on a family visit and going into the physical location was I so impressed with the personal customer service I received. I purchased a rocket model and had it sent home to me out of state they were more than happy to do so. Cudos to Apogee and all the customer service people!”

--  Max Weiss, Reno Nv

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