LOC Graduator Parachute Size

LOC Graduator Parachute Size

Post by MODROCK » Tue, 28 Sep 1999 04:00:00



Quote:
>My question is:

>Do I need a larger parachute?  Even if I had built a stock Graduator,
>would the 18" parachute  have been large enough?

My Graduator weighs in at 19 ounces after a few modifications ( steel cable and
beefed up shock cord and motor retainer system). I just launched it last
Saturday on a F 20 Econojet. A tremendous flight! Love that "White Lightning"
and Noise! A real crowd pleaser.

 My paint scheme was purple and gold (Louisiana State University Tigers colors)
along with some neat decals I found at the LSU giftshop. Fortunately, the
rocket flys better than the Tigers' football season has been.

I too thought the 18" chute was a little on the light side, even building it
stock. I moved up to a 28" chute that I also had from LOC. This worked great
and didn't drift that much either. I tend to go for soft landings and when in
doubt I go for the bigger chutes.

Enjoy The Graduator! A nice straightforward  rocket.

Joe A.
SOuth LouisianA  Rocketry (SOLAR # 8)

 
 
 

LOC Graduator Parachute Size

Post by Dave Urbane » Tue, 28 Sep 1999 04:00:00


Quote:

> My question is:

> Do I need a larger parachute?  Even if I had built a stock Graduator,
> would the 18" parachute  have been large enough?

My Graduator is longer (52") and heavier (30 oz, no motor) than yours.

The last flight had a 28" parachute and a recording altimeter.  The
altimeter shows the average descent speed as 20 fps.

When my Graduator was standard size and over 20 oz, I flew it with the 28"
chute and it was fine where I fly.  Our launch site is around 4300'
elevation.  At LDRS (1200' or so elevation), I dropped down to the 18"
chute and it recovered a bit fast but was still OK.  I'd guess at about 25
fps or so.  No damage, but I'd hate to be under it.

I still have yet to see a descent calculator that I trust.
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