Do you include parachute weight in descent weight calculation?

[Ben Awes]

Do you include parachute weight in descent weight calculation?

Sorry if this is one of those things that everyone knows but me - but I can't seem to find a simply yes or no answer anywhere.

Thanks in advance!
Ben

[jadebox]

Yes. All the things that are connected together as the rocket descends are part of the same system. And the parachute's weight contributes to the weight of the system.

-- Roger

[fyrwrxz]

Yup- same as you use it to help determine CG/Cp balance. It becomes part of the re-entry mass if it doesn't deploy! Think of it as part of the entire system you are bringing back down-it isn't 'free' just because it floats, it supports it thru drag, but still has mass.

(okay- Rodger types way faster'n me....what he said )

[GDJ]

I include everything, including wadding/dog barf.

[Sailorbill]

I include everything, including wadding/dog barf.

Doesn't the dog barf/wadding come down separate from the rocket? I can see including deployment bags and chute protectors but not dog barf.

[GDJ]

Doesn't the dog barf/wadding come down separate from the rocket? I can see including deployment bags and chute protectors but not dog barf.

Very true, but for calculating Apogee / Stability / Speed / Lateral distance from launch pad / etc.... it's helpful to include everything that the rocket will be flying with.