TARC team observer Q

[Rex R]

got asked to be an 'Observer' for a Tarc team...I gather from looking at the NAR site that; I get to watch the team launch a rocket(and time the flight), inspect the payload, jot down alt reading, flight duration, and whether the payload was undamaged. anything else I should know about?
thanks
rex

[chadrog]

Are you going to Bong tomorrow morning? I would love to, but that's my only sleep time.

[Rex R]

ayup, thats why I will miss the meeting, I can do one or the other but not both.

[scsager]

Rules Here - they must declare an offical attempt before flying... In other words they can't check the altimeter and then say "that's our attempt".

To be clear - they can (and probably should) make as many practice flights as they want.

You should verify:
-less than 650g lift off weight
- altimeter zeroed/reset before flight
- motor must be on the TARC Certified Engine List
- Two people, and two stopwatches required for timing.

This is the form

... one last thing - After March 1, 2012 only two (2) qualifing attempts can be made. (check the rules)

[Rex R]

thanks Scott. hmm that explains to 'shortage' of F40s . mostly looks to be common sense for the observer.
edit
I sure hope they 'nail' the flight.

[chadrog]

Have fun! I got your catalog, want me to mail it to ya'?

[Rex R]

well having their field taken away probably didn't help them. they were pretty good on duration but low on altitude. kinda fun watching them.
was thinking to catch up with you at a launch. launched my BBertha on a C6-3(achieved a whopping alt of 287') typical weather-sunny and a bit breezy, didn't know that one needed a runway pass...good news the access road is smoooth !
edit
no eggshells were harmed at the launch site

[chadrog]

Hopefully you were able to set them on the right path. Catch 'ya @ the sod farm.

[Rex R]

well you how it is, some folks get into a mindset that "I'm right, they are wrong"...I mentioned to the team's adult supervisor/teacher tilt the rod the other way, he got this odd look & the light bulb clicked. he went over and made the adjustment. the team member then reset the rod...you can't make someone learn,the best you can do is provide the info.
rex