Snow Ranch with low power launch under way
For Eric’s day we went to the LUNAR monthly high-power rocket launch at Snow Ranch in the Sierra foothills. By being so far away from civilization they can get clearance to go to 15,000 feet. Today had a low ceiling, so there were only a few opportunities for the high-power engines.
The rocket in the image below disappeared into the clouds after an impressive lift off, and had a successful recovery (eventually). Another of the high power rockets wasn’t quite as lucky – after screaming up into the clouds a small bang was heard, and instead of floating down under a parachute it just rained parts.
High-power launch
It was also a beautiful day for exploring the hillsides. You don’t realize how relentless the wind can be until you see trees like this one.
Wind blown tree