2nd Solid-rocket launch & payload test

The MIT Rocket Team conducted the second launch of its solid-fuel test-bed rocket, for the purposes of testing the video payload. This was the first use of the team's newly-costructed launch rail, which can be disassembled for easy transportation and includes a weather station at the top for recording conditions near launch.

The launch itself went well, with a smooth ascent to the desired altitude. During descent, however, a structural failure during parachute deployment caused the rocket to split into two pieces. The nose cone, containing the electronics, descended smoothly on the first, smaller dragchute. The tail end, though, did not fare as well. It contained the main chute, which did not deploy properly, and wound up suffering severe damage on landing.

The payload system did not return usable video, even though the system appeared to be working shortly before launch. Problems with the transmitter are being investigated.

Photos and movies of the launch are available online.