Cluster Altitude
OVERVIEW
Cluster Altitude comprises several events to test your skills in clustering and attaining the maximum altitude possible. The number of required motors varies by class:
| Class | # motors |
| 1/8A-CA | 2 |
| 1/4A-CA | 2 |
| 1/2A-CA | 3 |
| A-CA | 4 |
| B-CA | 5 |
| C-CA | 6 |
For the full rules for this event, please see the Cluster Altitude Rules in the Model Rocket Sporting Code.
SCORING
Score is the higher of the altitudes from the two allowed official flights. If the trackers cannot see the rocket and a “track lost” is recorded on a flight, that flight may be reflown.
GENERAL TIPS
by Dr. Ryan Coleman, NAR 59361
In the smaller events, typical altitude event rules apply, except you have to make a less streamlined model. Either two parallel tubes or an ‘inline’ cluster made of two motors inline with each other, connected by a dowel and with enough clearance that the top motor does not destroy the bottom motor casing. There are only MicroMaxx motors or 1/4A3-3T motors available as of now, so you’re stuck with those delays.
In 1/2A x 3 motor, both the 3 motor cluster inline or 3 motors in a triangle arrangement are popular. Again, though you have some motor choice, the 1/2A3-4T is the motor of choice for the event.
In Ax4 motor cluster, many models become possible. Central motors with outboards integrated into the fins for decreased drag are possible. Four A3-4T or A10-3T motors fit nicely into a BT-60 tube. Again, ‘inline’ clusters are possible, by putting one or more motors ahead of each other on motor pods.
Bx5 motor cluster isn’t very popular, but you finally have to use 18mm motors, have a wide selection of design choices to make and variety to try.
6xC Altitude is popular and was held at NARAM-39. Three plans are available below, with a much more extensive writeup on the event, check them out.
As with every altitude event, finish is important, also you want to get all your motors to light. Use a reliable battery for your launch system or a relay controller if your launch system is unreliable. Quest Q2G2s are available with extra long igniters and have a substantial amount of pyrogen on the tip, and are likely the favorite for igniting motors in this event.
Related Documents:
| Cluster Altitude (6C) (Etzel) | May 28, 2014, 5:25 am | 4 MB | |
| Cluster Altitude (6C) (Wolf) | May 28, 2014, 5:25 am | 4 MB |