Description
Pro Series II
We continue to develop and grow the Pro Series II line! This time around we’re offering up a BT60 (1.64 in/42 mm) diameter body tube for your building enjoyment. Standing over 45 inches tall, the Star Orbiter comes with the quick release motor retention system just as the other Pro Series kits do. (Motor Retainer Set – is also sold separately). Construction of this kit is not difficult and the altitudes you will reach are very impressive! Building and finish work can easily be accomplished over a few days.
WHAT YOU NEED TO BUILD: Scissors, pencil, ruler, fine sandpaper, epoxy, carpenter’s glue, hobby knife, masking tape, clear tape, primer (white), paint (black, orange) and celar coat (optional). (Tools, construction and finishing supplies not included.)
WHAT YOU NEED TO LAUNCH (sold separately): Estes Pro Series II Launch Pad with a 1/4 inch launch rod and Pro Series II Launch Controller, Estes model rocket engines, starters and recovery wadding. Four 1.5V high quality AA alkaline batteries are also required for launch controller (not included).
WARNING
Don Allen –
This is a great mid-power rocket especially using the F and G engines. I’ve just gotten two more in preparation to make it a 2 stage using one of the kits for a booster on the BT-60 body tube. I use an ejection baffle at the mid-point. This will also serve as a stronger anchor point for the shock cord. I’ve learned from past experience to use a wider (and longer) shock cord as too-thin of a shock cord will zipper the tube. I plan on replacing the balsa wood with 1/8″ plywood and I use good old JB Weld epoxy on the motor mount. A slotted airframe would be an ideal upgrade too. I use Titebond wood glue on most parts and it makes great glue fillets for the fins. The retainer rings work well especially using the 24 to 29 mm adapter. No engine blocks needed. This design is just simply awesome. On the next kit build, it will get 1/4″ launch lugs to go on my 6″ launch rod. I find it’s easier to spot if the bottom tube is black and upper tube is red/orange.
Leo –
Great flyer
The Star Orbiter is an easy to build sleek looking rocket and is one of my favorites.
I’ve purchased several Star Orbiters and the one I’m flying right now is converted to dual deploy recovery having it’s successful maiden flight on 5 September 2016.
As of this writing the max altitude reached so far is 2726 feet. But it won’t stop there…
Here a video example: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yPEEPmfB_r4
And here a build thread: http://www.rocketryforum.com/showthread.php?134806-Estes-Star-Orbiter-9716
Anthony –
My favorite rocket
I love this rocket so much I cleared the shelf of them. Very simple, light weight, durable and easy to modify. It rips off the pad. I hit 2500 feet and 359 mph with a G40-7. Recommend dual deploy with ejection charge removed with this particular rocket and engine combo. This rockets decent size will allow you to keep sight of it even at high altitudes. I recommend papering the fins for added durability. Really great rocket.
Louie –
looks good…
And yet another cool looking Pro Series 2 kit I gotta have….