shreadvector
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TANSTAAFL
2020 TARC challenge, is there anything that says you CAN’T use an 800 foot cord
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If I read it right, there is a minimum length but no maximum
https://rocketcontest.org/wp-conten...les-TARC-2020-Final-as-of-18-May-2019.doc.pdf
Section2.3
Also I question the term “weaseling.” Definitely not conforming to the expected approach. However, per Einstein
We cannot solve our problems with the same thinking we used when we created them.
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Heinlein liked that term too.
For those not familiar with the acronym:
There Ain’t No Such Thing As A Free Lunch
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As an aside, I tried the St Lous Arch once with a roll of crepe paper tied to a Big Bertha (as best I can recall). It was very cool but the rocket arced so much it hit the ground well before the ejection charge went off. But I got a lot of style points from all the kids watching.
Tony
Tony
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You are right on both counts. I wasn't looking at the rules as I posted that last message.
"Weaseling" was a bad word choice. Of course, the rules are intended to allow creative solutions and the contest encourages innovation.
But, the rules should ensure that launches are safe. A concern is that the rope is likely to make the rocket arc - potentially towards onlookers. So, in addition to the challenges of getting the technique to work, the team would have to demonstrate that they can do it safely. (Having been cut by the string when I used to fly kites, I am afraid of what a fast-moving, thin cord might do.)
Even if not expressly stated in the rules, the RSO should be able step in if concerned about the safety of a flight.
And, in any case, this is probably like the "rocktoon" idea. It seems straight-forward and easy when initially considered, but in reality is probably quite difficult.
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I am completely in agreement with you that if this option is tried the first attempt should be with a low-power rocket , on the away pad, with no Spectators around and all of the rocketeers definitely eyeing the pad and the rocket at the time of launch. Absolutely no argument that safety must always be our number one concern.
GuyNoir
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Instead of debating the rules here, why not just ask Trip Barber, the NAR TARC manager, if what you're proposing would be permitted?
Sooner Boomer
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What? Ruin a good argument with facts?
DAllen
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The impression I get from the OP is this thread is meant to be more of a thought experiment than anything else...
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In some ways yes. In "The Moon's a Harsh Mistress" and "Farnham's Freehold" he was definitely against unrestricted welfare benefits and definitely for limited government. In terms of "social norms" he was definitely and extremely liberal. Made for an interesting mix in his books.
I love that this thread is now up to 42 posts.
Yukon@K-9 Rocket Tech
Student, Drone and Rockets, Aspiring Engineer
Hahaha I thought of that before! I would use fiber woven fishing line. Only weighs a few grams for 100s of yards of it
https://www.amazon.com/Power-Spectra-Fiber-Braided-Fishing/dp/B005ADORGK
https://www.amazon.com/Power-Spectra-Fiber-Braided-Fishing/dp/B005ADORGK
Just because ....
Cats rule. Dogs drool.
Cats rule. Dogs drool.
