Rocketry Works

Vandenberg Launch Pad

(4 reviews) Write a Review
SKU:
RW-LG-VANDENBERG
Availability:
In stock items ship within 1 business day
  • Rocketry Works Vandenberg Launch Pad
  • Rocketry Works Vandenberg Launch Pad Blast Deflector Standoff Detail
  • Rocketry Works Vandenberg Launch Pad Components.
  • Rocketry Works Vandenberg Launch Pad Components--the launch rod(s) and launch rod mounts--store in a 3 foot long, 3/4 inch pvc pipe made of the joined legs, capped by the launch pad base. Only the blast deflector remains outside the single tube.
  • The 1/8 inch launch rod mount in the Vandenberg Pad
  • Conceptual view of the blast deflector stand off and launch rod mount, without the required blast deflector
  • The 1/8 inch launch rod, rod mount, blast deflector stand off and blast deflector
  • 3 sizes of launch rods with mounting hardware available
$13.50
  • Rocketry Works 20 gauge Blast Deflector
  • Rocketry Works 16 gauge Blast Deflector

Out of Stock

Description

The Vandenberg launch pad is a sturdy launch pad made of materials you can replace at the hardware store or print yourself on a 3D printer.  The main structure is simply 3/4 inch PVC pipe and fittings, and a 3D printable launch rod and blast deflector mount. Add to that a steel blast plate and launch rod, and an ingenious system to store the launch rod inside the PVC legs, and you have a quality launch pad for any Class 1 rocket--up to 1,500 grams (3.3 lbs).

Included with the launch pad:

  • 3 sturdy PVC legs, plus fittings that allow legs to double as a storage case for any of the available launch rod options
  • Choice of 3 foot long 1/8 inch or 3/16 inch launch rods or 4 foot long 1/4 inch launch rod
  • Choice of 1/32 inch or 1/16 inch thick, 5 inch wide steel blast deflector
  • Launch rod mount and blast deflector stand-off to fit selected launch rods launch rods

Low power rockets flying up to C power motors likely require a 1/8 inch launch rod. Slightly larger kits, typically flying on D or E motors, usually need a 3/16 inch launch rod. And mid power kits flying F and G motors usually need a 1/4 inch launch rod. Mid power kits should use the 16 gauge (1/16 inch thick) Blast Deflector Plate. Smaller rockets can use the 20 gauge (1/32 inch) Blast Deflector Plate.

Note that the black mounting hardware shown in the overview photos is different than the current hardware. We've made improvements to the design to increase durability and reliability. The current launch rod mount and blast deflector stand off are separate pieces, and they are color coded--1/8 inch are red, 3/16 inch are orange, and 1/4 inch are yellow.

For large groups of fliers--school groups, scout unites, 4H groups, or park district programs, consider the Cape Canaveral Launch Pad. Its sophisticated construction and tight integration with the Houston Launch Controller make it ideal for larger launches.

What's in a Name?

Rocketry Works tradition holds that we name our launch pads after famous launch ranges, as an homage to their history and service.  Rocketry Works' Vandenberg launch pad is named after Vandenberg Air Force Base near Lompoc, CA--the preeminent launch facility on the west coast. Vandenberg AFB is a Departmetn of Defence space and missile testing facility, responsible for putting satellites into polar orbit. SpaceX also leases facilities from the air force base. 

400px-minuteman3launch.jpg Minuteman 3 Missile Launch from Vandenberg AFB, near Lompoc, CA

View AllClose

4 Reviews

  • 5
    Launch Pad!!

    Posted by Damien M. on 16th Apr 2021

    The launch pad is amazing!!! Easy to assemble, break down, and makes for easy storage of the rod you choose to use for launch. Keeping the rod from bending in storage. I could not be happier with my purchase!!!!

  • 5
    Brilliant design!

    Posted by Steve C on 17th Mar 2021

    This is now my main launch pad. It is very, very easy to setup and breakdown. I find it very stable and easy to launch from. I opted for the heavier blast plate (I highly recommend) and it has remained flat after a dozen launches from it. The Estes blast plates are much thinner, they warp and burn through after a dozen launches. For storage and transport, the legs connect together into one long tube which the launch rods are stored inside of with a cap on each end. So clever! And a very safe way to transport the launch rods. The price is so reasonable too! I could not pass up such a great value.

  • 5
    Launch pad

    Posted by Mike on 22nd Dec 2020

    Prompt service, prompt communications, good product and a good price. They respond to emails/questions!

  • 5
    Super portable and convenient!

    Posted by Brandon Neff on 12th Feb 2020

    We LOVE this launch pad! The rods are stored in the PVC tubes (say goodbye to bent rods) and it assembles in seconds! We store the blast shield and three-way coupler in the range box along with the 3D printed stand off and rod mount. We have flown model and mid-power rockets off this pad with great results.

View AllClose