This is an Estes Phoenix model rocket, fired from a scratch-built barge pushed by the Dumas electric tug "Farwell."
The rocket, heavily damaged from prior misadventures (see our earlier videos), was to be put out to pasture in this launch, by firing it into Peconic Bay without a recovery system (parachute). Two cameras were installed in a custom-built waterproof capsule in its midsection, though only the nose camera functioned properly. Four other cameras captured the launch from multiple angles on a warm December afternoon during the closing days of 2011.
To our great surprise, Phoenix glided several hundred feet in near-level flight after engine cutoff, and survived the violent impact with the water with hardly a scratch. It was recovered immediately after landing - along with its cameras. Far from being destroyed, the missile now sits in the RapidNadion storage yards, dry, strong, and ready for another maritime launch!
NASA radio chatter sound bites were taken from the NASA archives, and come from the Apollo 9, Apollo 13, and Space Shuttle programs. Thanks to user "harmsworth1" for inspiring us via his "Estes Mercury Atlas Rocket Flt 2" video, featuring similar sound effects.
Engine used: D12-7
Cameras used:
Sony Handycam HDR-CX130
Casio Exilim FC-150 (high-speed footage only)
GoPro Hero HD
Off-brand "gum stick" camera
For more on our misadventures, visit our website!