Backyard Rockets: Learn to Make and Launch Rockets, Missiles, Cannons, and Other Projectiles

by Instructables.com, Mike Warren (Editor)

Overview

Originating from Instructables, a popular project-based community made up of all sorts of characters with wacky hobbies and a desire to pass on their wisdom to others, Backyard Rockets is made up of projects from a medley of authors who have collected and shared a treasure trove of rocket-launching plans and the knowledge to make their projects soar!

Backyard Rockets gives step-by-step instructions, with pictures to guide the way, on how to launch your very own project into the sky. All of these authors have labored over their endeavors to pass their knowledge on and make it easier for others to attempt. Discover how to create the following projects:

• Teeny, Tiny Rocket Engine
• Ultimate Straw Rocket
• Rocket Eggstronaut
• Pocket Rocket Launcher
• Iron Man Model Rocket
• Model Rocket with Camera
• Rocket-Powered Matchbox Cars – Extreme
• And much more!

The Instructables community has provided a compendium of rocket savvy from innovators who have paved the way for other curious minds. In addition to rockets, fireworks, and launchers in Backyard Rockets, you will discover the sense of accomplishment after watching your rocket soar into the sky!

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781620877302
Publisher:	Skyhorse
Publication date:	06/04/2013
Pages:	208
Product dimensions:	6.10(w) x 9.00(h) x 0.80(d)

About the Author

Instructables.com is a bona fide Internet sensation, a web-based community of motivated do-it-yourselfers who contribute invaluable how-to guides to the site on a wide range of topics, from gardening and home repair to recipes to gadgets that defy categorization. The site hosts more than 100,000 projects. More than 15 million people visit the site each month, leaving comments and suggestions on the ever-growing list of do-it-yourself projects.

Editorial Reviews

Instructables.com presents a collection of explosive fun. Projects are grouped according to size and composition, from small straw rockets to larger models, including a rocket-propelled Iron Man. The focus of construction is on the rocket body itself rather than on propulsion or engines needed. The more serious rockets require prior experience and know-how. The photos range in quality from helpful to hopelessly blurry—a mixed bag. Very few of these projects are kid-friendly, as they involve chemicals, soldering, explosive charges, etc. VERDICT Because this is a collection of projects by different authors, quality is not consistent; some are well defined, while others are not. For a better starting point, try William Gurstelle's Backyard Ballistics. Despite the flaws, however, this title has some good designs and would be welcome by enthusiastic rocketeers who are already well versed in the basics.

Library Journal