Pre-Flight Checklist

Day Before Launch

• [ ] Check weather forecast
• [ ] Charge altimeter battery
• [ ] Verify motor availability
• [ ] Pack all equipment
• [ ] Review simulation predictions

Equipment Checklist

Rocket Components

• [ ] Rocket (all sections)
• [ ] Motor(s)
• [ ] Motor retention hardware
• [ ] Igniters and igniter clips
• [ ] Recovery wadding (if using)

Electronics

• [ ] Altimeter (charged)
• [ ] Fresh batteries (spares)
• [ ] E-matches (if dual deploy)
• [ ] Black powder charges (measured)
• [ ] Masking tape for charge cups

Recovery

• [ ] Main parachute
• [ ] Drogue parachute (if dual deploy)
• [ ] Shock cords (inspect for damage)
• [ ] Quick links
• [ ] Chute protectors

Tools

• [ ] Allen wrenches
• [ ] Screwdrivers
• [ ] Tape (masking, electrical)
• [ ] Knife/scissors
• [ ] Marker/pen

Safety

• [ ] Safety glasses
• [ ] First aid kit
• [ ] Fire extinguisher (club usually provides)
• [ ] Cell phone

On-Pad Procedure

1. Motor Installation

• [ ] Install motor in mount
• [ ] Secure motor retention
• [ ] Verify motor is seated correctly

2. Recovery Prep

• [ ] Fold parachute(s)
• [ ] Attach chute protectors
• [ ] Load recovery bays
• [ ] Secure nose cone (tape/shear pins)

3. Electronics (if dual deploy)

• [ ] Connect e-match leads
• [ ] Verify continuity (altimeter beeps)
• [ ] Arm altimeter
• [ ] Close e-bay
• [ ] Secure rivets/shear pins

4. Final Checks

• [ ] CG location verified
• [ ] All sections secure
• [ ] Rail buttons/lugs clear
• [ ] Igniter installed (last step)

Post-Flight

• [ ] Photograph landing site
• [ ] Inspect for damage
• [ ] Download altimeter data
• [ ] Record flight details
• [ ] Prep for next flight or pack up

L1 Certification Specific

• [ ] Notify prefect/TAP of certification attempt
• [ ] Have membership card ready
• [ ] Complete certification paperwork before flight
• [ ] Witness signature after successful flight