**Rocketry Certification**
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E178, High-Power Rocketry previously has a pre- or co-requirement of either [NAR][NCRT] or [TRA][TCRT]
Level 1 certification and a strong recommendation of Level 2 certification. In stead of that
requirement, you will construct a Level-1 capable rocket and a Level-2
capable rocket, and be graded on the quality of the construction and flight worthiness,
as well as pass an exam with all of the Level 2 exam questions for both organizations
on it. That way I am certain about your rocket-building ability, but we don't have to
worry about the weather or launch cancellations
If you have access to a [TRA][TRA] or [NAR][NAR] launch site you are encouraged to do
both Level 1 and Level 2 certification.
The purpose of this page is to briefly explain the process for certification, and to provide
links to additional resources.
# Why Certify?
To fly motors larger than a G, a person must be certified. Level 1 certification lets you fly
rockets with H or I motors. Level 2 certification lets you fly J, K, and L motors. In California,
Level 3 certification lets you fly M motors. Outside of California, Level 3 lets you fly M and up.
# TRA or NAR?
To become certified you must belong to either the Tripoli Rocketry Association [TRA][TRA] or
the National Association of Rocketry [NAR][NAR] and certify with [one][TCRT] or the [other][NCRT]
(or both if you want). Either is acceptable and in general, if you are certified by one of
them, you can fly at a launch administered by the other of them. Here is a list of the
major differences:
* TRA is focused on high power rocketry and rocketry research, but they allow model rockets.
NAR is focused on model rocketry, but they support high power as well.
* Certifying Level 1 with TRA requires that you have a Prefect observe the flight. Certifying
Level 1 with NAR requires that you are observed by any member with Level 2 certification.
* NAR has many more member. TRA is a smaller community.
* TRA's annual national launch is LDRS (Large and Dangerous Rocket Ships). NAR's annual launch
is NSL (National Sport Launch).
Once you've decided which to join, go to the relevant website and sign up. It is possible to join
on site, the day that you certify, but it's better to join a month or so before your certification
flight. Tripoli describes membership [here][TMEM] and the actual sign-up form is [here][TFRM].
NAR describes membership [here][NMEM] and the actual sign-up form is [here][NFRM].
The closest high-power rocketry club to Harvey Mudd College is
the [Rocketry Organization of California (ROC)][ROC]. In non-COVID-19 times they
fly every month on the second Saturday at the [Lucerne Valley dry lake bed][ROCL]. They have a couple
of TRA prefects and a large number of NAR observers. I strongly recommend you certify with them.
The high power on-site vendors keep changing due to economics and other factors. Check
the [Vendors List on the ROC website](https://rocstock.org/vendors/) to see who is likely to be on site.
# Level 1
The detailed description of TRA's Level 1 certification process is [here][TL1].
The detailed description of NAR's Level 1 certification process is [here][NL1]. In short,
the process is:
1. By yourself, build a rocket designed to fly on H impulse or I impulse motors.
2. Prep the rocket for flight and prep the H or I motor for flight by yourself.
3. Fly the rocket while the required observer is watching (at a sponsored event).
4. Bring back the safely recovered rocket to the observer to verify that no damage
has occurred that would keep it from flying again.
## Level 1 Strategy
Most people trying to certify Level 1 build the simplest, least expensive (SLE) rocket they can that
will fly on a small H motor. The thinking is that once you are certified, you can experiment with
more complicated configurations, but the first order of business is to get certified. However,
if you are a person who pays attention to detail and are willing to ground test before flight,
you can certify on a more complex, and more expensive rocket. My Level 1 rocket was fairly
simple but not particularly inexpensive. My Level 2 was much more complicated than most
people fly to certify, but it functioned perfectly.
If you choose your rocket carefully, you can certify both Level 1 and Level 2 on the same
rocket (and on the same day, but most senior people recommend against same-day multi-certs).
## Level 1 motor recommendations
You can certify on either an H or an I motor, but you cannot take possession of the motor until
just before your flight. You can have someone already Level 1 or above (like Prof. Spjut)
buy it for you and give it to you when you're ready to prep for launch. Or you can buy it
at the launch site when you're ready to prep for launch.
### Aerotech or CTI?
You have three choices for a motor for a qualifying flight: An [Aerotech][AT] single-use motor,
an [Aerotech][AT] reload, or a [CTI][CTI] reload. Both the Aerotech and CTI reloads require you to have
a motor case. Aerotech single-use motors are slightly more expensive than
either brand of reload, but the CTI cases for the reloads are expensive, and the Aerotech cases
for the reloads are even more expensive. Prof. Spjut has cases you can borrow for the most common Aerotech sizes,
and a case or two for CTI motors, so a reload with a borrowed case is the cheapest way to go.
For a SLE rocket, the top two choices are the Aerotech [H128W-14A][AH]
reload and the CTI [H163-14A][CH] reload, but for SLE you can use any H reload that fits in the [Aerotech 29/180 case][A29]
or any H reload that fits in the [CTI 29mm 3-grain case][C29]. Many vendors have a qualification discount
for your first HP motor for a qualifying flight.
## Level 1 rocket recommendations
There are lots of rockets that will work for Level 1 and Level 2 qualification flights. By no
means consider the list below to be exhaustive.
### LOC Weasel
You will have to build one of these as part of the [first two labs](labs.md.html). It will easily let you
certify Level 1 (assuming you include the GPS Tracker) if you follow the construction techniques.
In addition to the [kit](https://locprecision.com/collections/rockets-1-63-diameter/products/weasel), you will need
an Estes 29mm motor retainer and 5-minute epoxy. The perfect cert motor for this rocket
is the Aerotech H128W. The class assembly instructions are [here](https://pages.hmc.edu/spjut/AdvRoc/CardboardWeaselRocketAssembly.md.html).
### Madcow 1.6" Mini DX3
Before the recent price hikes, this was the rockets built in the [first two labs](labs.md.html). It will easily let you
certify Level 1 (assuming you include the GPS Tracker) if you follow the construction techniques.
In addition to the [kit](https://www.madcowrocketry.com/1-6-mini-dx3/), you will need
an Estes 29mm motor retainer and 5-minute epoxy. The perfect cert motor for this rocket
is the Aerotech H128W. The former class assembly instructions are found [here](CardboardDX3RocketAssembly.md.html).
### Estes Pro Series II
The least expensive way to certify Level 1 is to buy an [Estes Pro Series II][EPS] with a
29 mm motor mount (not 24 mm) for
between $20 and $40 and make the modifications to fly it on an H motor.
The [Super Big Bertha](https://estesrockets.com/products/super-big-bertha?_pos=1&_psq=super+big+bertha&_ss=e&_v=1.0)
is an upscale of a classic Estes rocket and may be worth considering. If you can't get Pro Series II rocket
for around $20-to-$40, you're better off spending your
money on the Madcow or one of the other rockets below.
To modify a Pro Series II for an H motor:
* Leave out the engine block on the motor mount if the kit has one.
* Put epoxy fillets on the fin joints.
* Replace the shock cord with 10 to 15 feet of kevlar and attach it to the motor mount or through the wall, not just glued on.
* Consider replacing the existing 1/4" launch lugs with heftier 1/4" launch lugs or rail guides.
These rockets do not feature very rugged construction and will survive a few flights, but
don't plan on doing much more than qualifying on it. Available from [Estes][EPS],
[eRockets](http://www.erockets.biz/pro/),
[Sirius](https://www.siriusrocketry.biz/ishop/estes-pro-series-ii-kits-155/).
### Aerotech Arreaux
The Aerotech Arreaux is an excellent SLE rocket. However, to fly H motors, you'll need to
replace the stock 12" motor mount tube with a 15" or ~18" motor mount tube. See the construction
hints [below](http://pages.hmc.edu/spjut/AdvRoc/RocketryCertification.md.html#constructionhints/aerotecharreaux).
Beyond the kit and
the extra tube, all you need are CA adhesive
and JB weld. We used modified Arreauxs in E80 for years. It's much sturdier than the Estes
Pro Series II, but not as sturdy as the Phobos, the Vulcanite, the Wildman Minis, or the Madcow thin-wall
fiberglass. The rocket is available from [Wildman](https://wildmanrocketry.com/collections/aerotech-1-9-inch/products/arreaux),
[eRockets](http://www.erockets.biz/aerotech-flying-model-rocket-kit-arreaux-w-alum-retainer-89013/),
[Sirius](https://www.siriusrocketry.biz/ishop/aerotech-arreaux-739.html),
[Apogee Components](https://www.apogeerockets.com/Rocket_Kits/Skill_Level_3_Kits/Arreaux?cPath=1_85&zenid=l6mkupg4hcvh3itqubmpe2u9t3).
The replacement motor mount tube is available from [Aerotech](https://www.aerotechstore.com/products/product_16e318e6-c2fd-e5a5-d053-3e84f31591c7),
or [eRockets](http://www.erockets.biz/aerotech-motor-mount-tube-29-mm-x-17-3-4-inch-12918/).
### PML Phobos
The PML Phobos is an extremely rugged and reliable kit. If you pay attention to the instructions
and are careful during construction it will last for years. You will want the parachute upgrade
and the HAMR motor retainer. If you get the 38mm motor mount instead of the 29mm, you can certify
Level 2 on it as well, but you'd want to make certain of your construction techniques and
replace the standard circular launch lugs with rail guides. Available from
[LOC Precision](https://locprecision.com/collections/rockets-2-26-diameter/products/phobos),
[eRockets](http://www.erockets.biz/public-missiles-pml-flying-model-rocket-kit-phobos/).
### LOC Precision Vulcanite
You will build a Vulcanite as part of [Labs 4 and 5](labs.md.html).
The Vulcanite is a fairly rugged rocket that can be used for both Level 1 and Level 2 flights.
It's not quite as rugged as the PML Phobos. You'll want to order an Aero Pack Quick Change
motor retainer.
See building recommendations [below](#constructionhints/locprecisionvulcanite) if you want to try to cert
Level 2 on it as well, or
just want a very well constructed rocket. If you go for your Level 2 with it, you'll want
to use the Aerotech J270W-14A motor with 0.6g of BP.
Available from [LOC Precision](https://www.locprecision.com/product/vulcanite-h76/),
[Wildman](https://wildmanrocketry.com/products/vulcanite-h76),
[eRockets](http://www.erockets.biz/loc-precision-flying-model-rocket-kit-vulcanite-h76-pk-52/),
[Sirius](https://www.siriusrocketry.biz/ishop/loc-vulcanite-1805.html).
### Wildman Mini
Any of the Wildman Mini series rockets will work very well as a Level 1 qualifying rocket.
They are extremely sturdy and will last for years. Be sure to get the quick-change retainer.
The Nomex chute protector is also useful, but may only last a few flights. Consider the
dual deploy upgrade if you don't want an SLE rocket. Available from
[Wildman](https://wildmanrocketry.com/collections/wildman-mini).
### Madcow
[Madcow](https://www.madcowrocketry.com) has a number of rockets that will work for
Level 1 and Level 2 flights. The previous E190 Class Rocket
was a modified version of the Madcow Go Devil 38. However, the instructions are much less
detailed and are designed for more experienced builders.
Consult Prof. Spjut if you would
like assistance with choosing a [Madcow](https://www.madcowrocketry.com) kit.
### Apogee Components
One option to consider is the [Apogee Peregrine](https://www.apogeerockets.com/Rocket-Kits/Skill-Level-3-Model-Rocket-Kits/Peregrine).
It is designed for dual deploy and will also work as a Level 2 rocket should you decide
to use it. It has an amazing set of videos on construction if you need a little guidance.
They also sell the [Zephyr](https://www.apogeerockets.com/Rocket-Kits/Skill-Level-3-Model-Rocket-Kits/Zephyr).
# Level 2
The detailed description of TRA's Level 2 certification process is [here][TL2].
The detailed description of NAR's Level 2 certification process is [here][NL2]. In short,
the process is:
1. By yourself, build a rocket designed to fly on J impulse, K impulse, or L impulse motors.
2. Take and pass the Level 2 qualifying test. The TRA study guide is [here][T2SG] and the NAR study
guide is [here][N2SG]. An equivalent exam will be part of the Advanced Rocketry class.
The NAR exam consists of 37 questions taken from the list of questions. You must get 32
correct to pass (meaning you can miss up to 5 questions). The TRA exam consists of 50
questions taken from the list of questions. You must get 45
correct to pass (meaning you can miss up to 5 questions).
2. Prep the rocket for flight and prep the J, K, or L motor for flight by yourself.
3. Fly the rocket while the required observer is watching (at a sponsored event).
4. Bring back the safely recovered rocket to the observer to verify that no damage
has occurred that would keep it from flying again.
# Level 3
Consult the relevant website. We will not focus on Level 3 in Advanced Rocketry
# Level 1 Checklist
[ ] Join either TRA or NAR. Best to do a month before flight.
[ ] Construct yor rocket by yourself. Follow the hints below if using one of my recommendations.
[ ] Weigh your completed rocket and find the center of mass fully loaded ('chute, electronics, etc) but _without_ the motor.
[ ] Use either Rocksim/Open Rocket or the kit information to locate and label the _Center of Pressure_ (CP). The symbol is a circle with a dot in the middle, ☉.
[ ] Decide on the motors you might use.
[ ] Using Rocksim/Open Rocket and your measured mass and CM, determine the optimal delay. The delays on the motors can be adjusted
downwards (but not upwards) in 2-second increments. Plan on adjusting the motor accordingly.
[ ] Determine how much black powder you will need for ejection. Weigh out the correct amount, and package it for travel.
PML used to have has guidelines for its kits. They tend to require much less than
other rockets.
For non-piston eject rockets, there are guidelines [here](http://hararocketry.org/hara/resources/how-to-size-ejection-charge/)
and [here](https://www.insanerocketry.com/blackpowder.html).
[ ] Print out and fill out a copy of the paperwork. They usually have it on site, but it doesn't hurt to bring your own copy.
The TRA form is [here](https://www.tripoli.org/docs.ashx?id=859597).
The NAR form is [here](https://www.nar.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/HPR-L1-APPL-2021-V1.pdf).
[ ] Check ahead of time that there will be someone at the launch who can handle the certification
procedure. TRA is more restrictive than NAR, but make sure someone will be there.
[ ] At the launch site, prep your motor and rocket according to your checklist. Nervous people without
checklists make mistakes.
[ ] Take your rocket and paperwork and find the person who will certify you, and follow their instructions.
# Level 2 Checklist
[ ] Make sure you are a member of either TRA or NAR, you have your member number, and you have certified Level 1.
[ ] Study for the exam. Just memorize the answers. It's easier than trying to figure out why they chose certain answers.
[ ] Construct your rocket by yourself. Follow the hints below if using one of my recommendations.
[ ] Weigh your completed rocket and find the center of mass fully loaded ('chute, electronics, etc) but _without_ the motor.
[ ] Use either Rocksim/Open Rocket or the kit information to locate and label the _Center of Pressure_ (CP). The symbol is a circle with a dot in the middle, ☉.
[ ] Decide on the motors you might use.
[ ] Using Rocksim/Open Rocket and your measured mass and CM, determine the optimal delay. The delays on the motors can be adjusted
downwards (but not upwards) in 2-second increments. Plan on adjusting the motor accordingly.
[ ] Determine how much black powder you will need for ejection. Weigh out the correct amount, and package it for travel.
PML used to have has guidelines for its kits. They tend to require much less than
other rockets.
For non-piston eject rockets, there are guidelines [here](http://hararocketry.org/hara/resources/how-to-size-ejection-charge/)
and [here](https://www.insanerocketry.com/blackpowder.html).
[ ] Print out and fill out a copy of the paperwork. They usually have it on site, but it doesn't hurt to bring your own copy.
The TRA form is [here](https://www.tripoli.org/docs.ashx?id=859597).
The NAR form is [here](https://www.nar.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/HPR-L2-APPL-2021-V1.pdf).
[ ] Check ahead of time that there will be someone at the launch who can handle the certification
procedure. TRA is more restrictive than NAR, but make sure someone will be there.
[ ] At the launch site, approach the person who will certify you, and take and pass the Level 2 exam.
[ ] Prep your motor and rocket according to your checklist. Nervous people without checklists make mistakes.
[ ] Take your rocket and paperwork and find the person who will certify you, and follow their instructions.
# Construction Hints
## Aerotech Arreaux
1. It’s worth buying an extra-length motor-mount tubes to cert level 1. A length of at
least 15" will work for Aerotech 29/180 or shorter motors. _You'll need to fiberglass your rocket
to fly motors with more than 180 Ns of impulse_. You will need a length of at
least 16¼" for the H115DM-14A, the H182R-14A, the H135W-14A, and the H195NT-14A, and a
length of at least 19¾" for the I205W-14A. For the extra-length motor mount tube, you can either order
the replacement motor mount tube from [Aerotech](https://www.aerotechstore.com/products/product_16e318e6-c2fd-e5a5-d053-3e84f31591c7),
or [eRockets](http://www.erockets.biz/aerotech-motor-mount-tube-29-mm-x-17-3-4-inch-12918/).
2. You won't need the 24 mm motor adaptor and don't need to construct it. Most of the parts
are no longer in the kit.
3. You need to attach the included motor retainer instead of the Motor Hook, Thrust Ring,
and Thrust Ring Flange. These changes are detailed in the Arreaux Motor Retainer Upgrade
Notice. Attaching the motor retainer should be done AFTER the rest of the rocket construction
is completed (after Step 1 of the FINAL ASSEMBLY AND FINISHING in the instructions), otherewise
it will block the application of the cyannoacrylate to the fin roots and the aft Centering Ring.
Use JB Weld to attach it. The details are in the Aerotech 29 mm Motor Retainer Instructions
(all on the Aerotech website