Getting Into Space
In this sub-unit you will focus on the physics of rocket launches and the challenges of getting into space.
The aim is to investigate the factors that impact upon the maximum height achieved by a rocket. Water rocketry will be used to simulate the launch and to collect relevant data. You will develop mathematical models for one or more of the factors that influence the final height achieved by the rocket in order to optimise the design and launch conditions. |
Rocket Height Calculations
The 3D model above is a simulation of how you would measure the height of a rocket launch from 3 different points. Measurement from 3 different points, and calculating the average, is designed to reduce the uncertainty in the height as a result of the launch not being exactly vertical.
Trigonometry can be used to determine the overall height of the rocket at teach station by using an inclinometer, this is the situation shown opposite. The information required the rocket height is as follows
h = the height, to eye level, of the observer (in m) D = the distance between the observer and the launch pad (in m) A = Angle of inclination to the maximum height of the rocket. |