Guest: Steve Eves. Topics: high powered rocketry, Saturn V, Apollo, U.S. Space & Rocket Center. Steve Eves was our guest today to discuss his recent and very successful launch of his 1/10th scale Saturn V rocket he built in his garage in Ohio and flew to 4,400 feet on April 25, 2009 at the Eugene Higgs Farm in Maryland. The scale model Saturn V rocket will soon be part of the Saturn V display at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center pending final negotiations with Steve. You can see this launch on Youtube at www.youtube.com/watch?v=bj4lj6YSwzg. During our interview with Steve, we discussed hobby/amature rocketry, the need for the high powered rocket associations, Tripoli Rocketry Association and the National Association of Rocketry. Steve explained what was meant by high powered rocketry and the requirements regarding G, H, and higher level rocket motors. Steve went into detail as to how he built his 36' tall scale model of the Saturn V and you will want to hear about it. Note how he always worked with back up fasteners, over 10,000 nails and more, aviation plywood, and fiberglass. He also talked about the vulnerability of recovery systems and how he designed his system with the parachutes to counter the most common problems found with recovery. His Saturn V had a gross lift off weight of 1,648 lbs, reached maximum speed of 308 mph in about 2 seconds, and was 30" in diameter. We talked about fulfilling a dream and how he was inspired by the early Apollo program to do this and finally he was able to do it. Listeners asked lots of questions about his team, transporting the rocket across state lines, fuel, range safety, flight conditions, the FAA waiver for the launch, and his actual expectations of a successful launch before he pushed the button. This is a program you will want to hear as its importance transcends hobby rocketry. Steve Eves represents inspiration, having a dream and making that dream come true. You can send your questions and comments to Steve Eves at fireside2001@aol.com.
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The Space Show
