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By John Millis, About.com Guide to Space / Astronomy

Model Rockets

Thursday October 9, 2008
Model rocketry is a great tool for learning about space exploration and physics. Flying model rockets is a relatively safe and inexpensive way to learn the basics of forces and the response of vehicles to external forces.

It is also a fun hobby.

Blast your own model rockets into space (or at least high in the sky) with this fun and exciting hobby.

Model rocketry is fun, but it can also be dangerous. We take safety very seriously in everything that we do. Safety is the first mission in flying; whether it is flying the Space Shuttle, an experimental aircraft, or a model rocket. You must always be aware of the people and things around you which can be harmed by your rocket, or which can harm you or your rocket.

Fly your rocket in an open field where there are no obstacles. Never fly near trees. If your rocket ends up in a tree, you're going to need a new rocket. Never fly near a highway. You can be hurt chasing your rocket across the highway and people driving by are often distracted by model rockets. Never fly near houses. Your rocket can do damage to the windows, sidings and roof of a house. If your rocket ends up on the roof, you're going to need a new rocket. And never, ever fly near high tension wires. That's a sure way to loose a rocket.

If you follow the rules, model rockets are as safe as any other toy. But if you break the rules, you endanger yourself and those around you.

We have selected a number of fun model rocket kits for all levels of ability. Check out these great model rocket kits for yourself or as a gift for your favorite space enthusiast.

Image Credits:
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    Space Toys

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