Honors Algebra III/Trig.

Name(s)
Rocket Design Project
Phase Two: Rocket Launch Testing

Period Group #

Phase Two: Rocket Launch Testing

In this phase you will evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of your rocket design by conducting
two trial launches for each of the launch angles listed below and recording your data. After
recording the data, you will analyze it to determine what changes (if any) you would like to
make. Keep in mind that even though this is only the testing phase, it is important to be as
accurate as possible when taking measurements as any modifications you make will be based
upon your data.

Rocket A Data
Mass: Rocket Body Length:
Number of Fins: Overall Length:

Trial #1 Trial #2
Launch Launch
Angle Range Altitude Angle Range Altitude
30° 30°

45° 45°

60° 60°

Rocket B Data
Mass: Rocket Body Length:
Number of Fins: Overall Length:

Trial #1 Trial #2
Launch Launch
Angle Range Altitude Angle Range Altitude
30° 30°

45° 45°

60° 60°
Steps for Calculating Altitude:

1. Determine the range of your rocket. Take a measurement in inches from the launch point to
the landing point.

2. Take the range measurement from step #1 and divide by 2.

Note: You are dividing by two using the idea that the rocket achieves its maximum altitude
halfway into its flight.

3. Draw a triangle that resembles the triangle below.

4. Use the right triangle definition for the tangent to calculate the altitude, y.