Rocketry

Introduction

The most common recommendation is to make a rocket which can fly for L1 and L2 certs. In my case I kind of made two separate rockets for the sake of having two rockets (my wallet...). These certifications are for high-power rockets, which are more dangerous than low-power rockets which makes sense. Everything dangerous that comes to mind when you hear high-power applies to these rockets which means these rockets should

1. good structural durability: use wood instead of thin tubes
2. be even more careful around when launching: these are literally missiles
3. understand the rocket fully: know its motor thrust, know for certain that the rocket can fly without causing damage, know that the ejection charge works

A simulator like OpenRocket is very helpful for getting an understanding of whether your rocket works or note. See Rocket Parts for a rundown of common and important rocket components. See Dual Deployment for how a parachute deploys for a rocket.

L1 Certification

Very straight forward. Motors are generally H or I class.

L2 Certification

At this point you might consider Dual Deployment, or you might save it for the L3 rocket.

L3 Certification