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Model Forum / General / Rockets / December 2004Fin Configuration Cosmetic or Practical?
I'm wondering about the fin configuration on rockets like the Talon (http://www.giantleaprocketry.com/products_kits_talon.asp); is there any aerodynamic purpose to having larger fins further up, and smaller fins behind, or is it just for appearance? Seems like it would be more unstable, although it does make the rocket stand out a bit in a crowd, I suppose. > I'm wondering about the fin configuration on rockets like the Talon > (http://www.giantleaprocketry.com/products_kits_talon.asp); is there any > aerodynamic purpose to having larger fins further up, and smaller fins behind, > or is it just for appearance? Seems like it would be more unstable, although it > does make the rocket stand out a bit in a crowd, I suppose. In a sounding rocket there is no need for the forward fins. No need for forward fins on a space booster either. In a guided missile however, the forward fins give lift while the rear fins are moved with servos to navigate. Missiles are really different from normal rockets in many ways, and usually need neutral stability instead of positive stability of a sounding rocket. In hobby rockets like the Talon, the 'Missile Look' is the selling point. Or was the missile holder a selling point ? I'm confused ;-) > I'm wondering about the fin configuration on rockets like the Talon > (http://www.giantleaprocketry.com/products_kits_talon.asp); is there any > aerodynamic purpose to having larger fins further up, and smaller fins behind, > or is it just for appearance? Seems like it would be more unstable, although it > does make the rocket stand out a bit in a crowd, I suppose. Just for looks. If you want efficiency, you want 3FNC.  SignatureJoseph J. Pfeiffer, Jr., Ph.D. Phone -- (505) 646-1605 Department of Computer Science FAX -- (505) 646-1002 New Mexico State University http://www.cs.nmsu.edu/~pfeiffer |
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