Yes, the supplies will not b limited--Bill at BMS charges what he needs to charge to make a living, so there are no limited runs--just limited demand if the price is high.
The model is comparable in weight to a Big Bertha, at least if yo build light. I recall something like 4 oz with noseweight (I forget if that includes the engine. The first prototype flies great on a B6-4 or B4-4, really highon a C6-5, and kind of hairy on an A8-3. A heavier build might want a B6-2 or C6-3.
Diameter is 2.04", the same as the current Estes Mercury-Redstone, but shorter and lighter.
I expect the second prototype to be a little heavier--I will use gloss paint--just to confirm that the nose weight and engine choices are adequate.
Fun bonus of doing Apollos 15-17: The first two stages are the same as for Skylab, so I am considering designing a Skylab alternative nose. But I gotta get the Apollo-Satrn V done first, as it's already a year overdue.
I will mke loud noises when the kit is out. I doubt it will be done by LDRS in July, but I really want it done by NARAM in August. Knowing how things go, I would expect the first kits to appear at NARAM and mail order to start once I recover from the trip.
I may take advace orders after I know the price, but keep in mind that "under $50" is my goal, and not a promise. It will cost what it costs, and if it has to be ridiculously overpiced, we'll offer it at whatever we have to, and just not sell many.
Yes, a Vostok is in my head. One with lots of compromises--think the old Estes Vostok but with rolled paper boosters. At least it should be resonably cheap. Maybe by NARAM 2005.
