Hydra VII launch

billeblurzz · Dec 11, 2022

Ok so far…

billeblurzz · Dec 11, 2022

Yes! Look at it go!

billeblurzz · Dec 11, 2022

….oh No! It was only 6 of the 7 firing!

billeblurzz · Dec 11, 2022

Great flight! But major core sample! The crucial center motor for the chute ejection did not light…and I think I know why.

gdjsky01 · Dec 11, 2022

Ouch!

billeblurzz · Dec 11, 2022

If I had reversed one set of leads I think it would’ve worked…I debated about that beforehand. Anyway it’s really salvageable because the only damage was to the upper nose/payload section. The major work parts/lower sections/fins etc. are fine! Someday maybe I’ll try again!

billeblurzz · Dec 11, 2022

View attachment FullSizeRender.MOV

billeblurzz · Dec 11, 2022

Play the full video and turn up the volume! You can hear multiple ejection charges and the whistling in core sample!

DRAGON64 · Dec 12, 2022

My Hydra VII met the same demise... No flight pics for me, but here is a much older photo from my archives.

dpower · Dec 18, 2022

Nice up part, Bill! And great looking paint job! I would recommend opening up 2 more motor tubes, shouldn’t be too difficult, it’s just a fiberboard plug. This gives 3 chances for ejection. I’ve flown mine around 20 times in this configuration, always with 7 motors. Occasionally one won’t fire, but I always get deployment.

Good to know a command control will handle clustering of StarTech, I’ve used Solar, Q2G2, MJG, and Sonic, all with 12v. I used to use a 7 position clip-whip with Solar igniters, but found the other igniters more reliable, just twisting leads together. Also tried soldering extensions onto Solar, but that was a lot more work.

The video is quite entertaining, the thud is clearly audible at the end.

billeblurzz · Apr 20, 2023

Well today I decided to try again for the full stack launch of my repaired Hydra VII! My launching field will probably be planted soon so I went ahead even with 10mph winds or 19mph gusts!