Estes Low Boom SST Expert Model Rocket (18mm Standard Engine) [7289]

Estes Low Boom SST Expert Model Rocket (18mm Standard Engine) [7289]

$62.99

Description

In an era of aerospace marvels, the supersonic transport (SST) stood out. By the mid-1960s, multiple nations were pursuing the goal of an SST passenger jet. Imagine traveling from New York to L.A. in less than two hours – it was the verge of a revolution in air travel! But there were problems. Budget overruns and projections of enormous operating costs were limiting the passenger SST’s appeal. But the real death knell to an international fleet of SSTs was the excessive sound – these super-fast jets were simply too noisy.

The SST’s thunderous “sonic booms” – faster-than-sound shock waves – were dangerously loud. So loud that SST activity over the continental US was banned, with other nations following suit. Eventually, supersonic flights were limited to ocean routes. Most nations dropped their SST projects and a single model, jointly developed by England and France, was produced in very limited numbers. In the end, the revolution never came.

Fast forward to today. After decades of test flights and analysis, a solution may finally be at hand: The Low-Boom SST. By adjusting critical aspects of aircraft features like nose shape, fuselage length, wing surface area, engine output, etc., the duration and power of the sonic boom can be minimized. “Low-boom” supersonic test aircraft are now being flown successfully, and passenger jet designs are in the works.

Estes is looking ahead with its own Low-Boom SST – a sleek, 30-inch long, delta-winged model rocket of the next generation of quiet, super-fast passenger jets. This Expert level kit is loaded with features, including intricate, balsa-constructed, underwing engine pods and a large sheet of detailed water-slide decals to complete the scale-like look. Launch and watch as the Low-Boom SST climbs to 400 feet on a C6-3, engine and gently returns under a large 15 inch parachute. The SST revolution might be on its way after all!

WHAT YOU NEED TO BUILD: Scissors, pencil, ruler, fine sandpaper, yellow glue, plastic cement, sanding block, hobby knife, masking tape, clear tape, primer (white), paint (red, white) and clear coat (optional). (Tools, construction and finishing supplies not included.)

WHAT YOU NEED TO LAUNCH (sold separately): Estes Porta-Pad II Launch Pad and Electron Beam Launch Controller, Estes model rocket engines, starters, and recovery wadding. Four 1.5V high quality AA alkaline batteries are also required for launch controller (not included).

Recommended Engines

C5-3, C6-3

Projected Max Altitude

400 ft. (122 m)

Recovery System

15 in. (38.1 cm) Parachute

Length

30 in. (76.2 cm)

Diameter

1.33 in. (34 mm)

Estimated Weight

3.8 oz. (107.7 g)

Estimated Assembly Time

6 Hours (painting and glue drying time not included)

Fin Materials

Laser cut wood

Decal Type

Waterslide

Launch System

Porta-Pad II and Electron Beam Launch Controller

Launch Rod Size

1/8"

Age Recommendation

Estes model rocketry is recommended for boys and girls ages 10+ with adult supervision for those under 12, and rocketeers of all ages.

Specifications

Brand Estes