Review Details

001475 - Solar Scouts™ Launch Set

Product Review (submitted on January 4, 2011):

This is a wonderful Rocket kit for both entry level users and the more advanced. Anytime you have to take time to build your own rockets, there's a much greater sense of satisfaction seeing them lift off and hit apogee and watching the chute deploy.

I purchased two sets of this particular model because it comes with an ignition controller, a platform, a long three rod guide which extends over three feet (giving you a straighter launch) and a flat blast base for the rocket to sit on. You can use these platforms for almost any model rocket and they're a must have.

The base and platform easily assemble and disassemble which can be stored into a tool-box for safe travel and also a wise storage idea which keeps little hands away from the engines and other stuff.

I use the C6-7 and C6-5 engines with the Farside rocket and the A10-3T engines for the Sky Dart. Hobby shops often have a variety of these but it's wise to get them here.

These rockets are simple to build but do require some time. I shoot these off with my 3 year old all the time and get multiple launches with every rocket, but I did build the rockets when he was sleeping as it's careful and exact work. I spent close to a dedicated hour on each one. It's not like building the Blackbird or the Saturn V that Estes sell, but you have to take your time and put these together well.

The next step if you continue using these over a long period of time, is to create our own 12" parachute, or buy a replacement. The thin plastic ones they supply are the only part of this package which often need replacing. If you don't use enough wadding, the heat from the engine can melt the chute causing a failure to fully deploy.

These rockets are a lot of fun and they never lose their appeal when you're out there firing them off.