Air launch in OpenRocket?

[tejt]

Hi, basically, how do you simulate air launches in OpenRocket?

Thanks.

 

[tim cubbedge]

I am guessing you are referring to a 2 stage or a cluster, correct?
If so, you basically need to select ignition of 2nd stage at some event, i.e., burnout of booster, ejection charge. You will find a pull down menu in yor sustainer motor config. Again, I am assuming this is 2 stage. Really need more info about what you are trying to do.

 

[neil_w]

1) Welcome to the forum!
2) Please clarify what you mean by air launch.
3) OpenRocket questions are best asked in the Rocketry Electronics and Software forum (https://www.rocketryforum.com/forums/rocketry-electronics-and-software.36/)

 

[tejt]

Hi sorry about the clarity and category issues, it's my first post. What I mean is launch the model rocket from an rc plane like virgin orbital. This is theoretical so please do not worry about legal issues.

Thanks.

 

[neil_w]

OpenRocket is not equipped to deal with something like that, if for no other reason than the plane-launched rockets launch horizontally, and then angle upwards. OR can't simulate a horizontal launch, and even if it could it couldn't them simulate the behavior of changing trajectory. And if you *don't* change directory, you'd be simulating an air-to-surface missile.

 

[tejt]

Oh ok. Thanks for the near instant reply.

 

[mikec]

You can set the initial altitude to the launch altitude, and by the use of plugins you could in theory simulate a turn to vertical (but that would be a substantial undertaking, I sure don't know how to do it.)