| | [Not displaying correctly? View web version.] | Peak-of-Flight Newsletter #647: | |
Unlock the Computational Fluid Dynamics To Make Simulations More Accurate! Ever wondered which launch guide truly minimizes drag? Or how adding an external camera shroud affects your rocket’s stability? In Part IV of our CFD for Model Rocketry series, Ken Karbon dives into real-world applications that even traditional tools like our RockSim software can’t accomplish—revealing game-changing insights for serious rocketeers. In the three previous articles we've seen how to set up CFD software on your computer. Now we'll get into some real-world applications so you can see how useful this is for designers and those interested in accurate RockSim simulations. In This Article You'll Discover: Drag Showdown: Launch lugs vs. rail buttons vs. conformal guides—see which adds the least drag (spoiler: the results defy tradition!). CP Calculations Demystified: Learn how CFD outsmarts Barrowman equations to pinpoint your rocket’s stability with laser accuracy. Camera Hood Stability Surprises: Spoiler alert—As big as it is, that 3D-printed shroud might not wreck your CP. RockSim-Pro Hacks: Integrate CFD data directly into flight simulations for ultra-accurate trajectories. You'll see why you absolutely must be using RS-PRO to simulate your rockets. Exclusive visuals, step-by-step guides, and data-driven tips await inside. Whether you’re chasing competition-level performance or geeking out on airflow vortices, this article transforms CFD from theory into your rocket’s secret weapon. | | 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. |
| Check out the latest products to hit Apogee's shelves! | RS-Pro Upgrade | |
The lastest version of RS-Pro is now available (v4.2.3f2). This new version has several new features, including the ability to 'read in' recorded altimeter or GPS data from Featherweight devices. This will allow you to display the trajectory of your actual launch in the 3D Launch Visualizer in realtime. We call this "replaying the flight." You can also compare this trajectory against predicted simulations from RS-Pro so that you can determine what can make your sims or your flight better in the future. If you're already a RS-PRO user, this is a free upgrade, and you can do a "check for updates" from within the software and get it right away. |
| Apogee Invicta | |
The Apogee Invicta is a high-power, two-stage marvel designed for thrill-seekers and skill-builders alike. Standing nearly 6 feet tall with a robust 3-inch diameter, this rocket combines laser-cut precision and electronic staging for jaw-dropping air-start flights that will have every video camera on the field pointed at your rocket's launch. Perfect for post-certification enthusiasts, the Invicta offers versatility: fly it as a towering two-stage beast (using motors up to "I" class) or solo with just the sleek upper stage. With rugged through-the-wall fin construction, reusable nylon parachutes, advanced features like removable rivets for easy access to electronics, and an innovative baffle system, it’s built for repeat adventures. Ready to command the skies? Visit Apogee’s website to explore specs, assembly videos, and motor options—your next launch masterpiece awaits! |
| 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. |
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| | Customer Testimonial “Apogee is our go to place for all our rocket needs. As novices jumping into the American Rocket Challenge four years ago the Screaming Eagle Rocket Club knew little to nothing about building competition rockets. Over the last four years the Club has gotten all their rocket building supplies from Apogee. The materials are top rate but even more important the customer service is first class! Whether the Club is purchasing Rocksim licenses, body tubes, fin material, parachutes, or anything else they need Apogee has been there for the Club. I would recommend Apogee to everyone and believe it is important to support this great business to ensure they are around for years to come.” -- Vince C. | |
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| I'm now actively seeking writers for articles to appear in this newsletter. And I want unique and cutting-edge articles because that is what you want to read, right? I realize this, so to get articles from outside writers that have the same level of quality, I'm going to have to pay a lot of cash to make it worth it for them. So I've come up with a compensation package where I'll pay up to $350 for good how-to articles. Are you a writer, and does that interest you? That is a lot of cash! Far more than you'll get by writing for other magazines. And with over 23,000 worldwide subscribers, if you write for the Peak-of-Flight Newsletter, you'll gain a lot of notoriety. Writing for the Peak-of-Flight Newsletter is a great way to show off your rocketry projects and your technical expertise, at the same time as helping out other rocketeers. Imagine how great you'll feel knowing that you made a difference to the hobby. If you're interested in writing, see the guidelines on our site. | |
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