Nytrunner
Pop lugs, not drugs
Interesting conversation. I try to size my drogue based on my simulation results. I usually try for about 50-60 fps descent rate on the drogue, not only to bring it down a little quicker, but also to reduce the load on the main when it deploys. I also keep in mind that it's possible the rocket will land on drogue only.
On some of my smaller rockets, I'll use a streamer for the drogue to avoid drifting. That also helps to keep the parts from banging together.
Phil L.
Agreed, Openrocket's a good source of data for making assumptions.
My only wish is that it could take some account for the booster's falling drag. I haven't had any luck generating a good profile for a drogueless descent. It always makes it ballistic.