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TRIPOLI Pittsburgh

Launch Report

July 21, 2024

Page 4

Flyers: 18

Flights: 47

For those unfamilliar with the Mars Lander, it is a more complex build than most rockets. It has built up legs and internal structures that allow them to spring up and down on landing.

Photo: Ernie Marsh

"When I saw that SemRoc had re-introduced the Lander a couple of decades ago, I got one as soon as I could get my hands on it."

"I had better tools and skills and paitence and so the next Lander looked and flew much better."

"As a newer TRIPOLI Pittsburgh member about two decades ago, I brought out the Lander to a launch at the 'New' Dragon's Fire Field."

"And it flew quite nicely...."

"Twice."

"After it's second flight, my buddy Doug McCullough broke one of the legs pulling it out of a tree."

Photo: Ernie Marsh

TR's Mars Lander lifts off from the low power pads on a B-6 motor

John Haught loads up his ever reliable Wild Thang Jr at the high power pads.

John has had the Thang flying at each of the 2024 launches and as predicted all of the flights have gone well. July was no exception.

The 'W's cut into the fins make the Wild Thang Jr identifiable even at a distance.

The dark smoke is one of John's specialty motors.

John Haught watches his Wild Thang Jr safely return to terra firma.

Don't be surprised to see the Wild Thang back out again soon.

And if you are a new flyer, be sure to talk to John. He makes all of his own motors and he's a great guy with loads of experience that he is always willing to share.

Photo: Ernie Marsh