Model Rocketry – County Only Contest
Date: Saturday, February 7th, 2026
4-H members should be able to display a knowledge of the NAR safety code and the skills to successfully launch a first flight model rocket. Beginner to Advanced rocket kits or self-designed rockets may be used.
RTF model rockets can only be used by Clover Kids
Model Rocketry Contest Rubric (page 9): FBC Roundup Guide 2026 Final
Resources:
Apogee Components Education Resources
Contest Rules:
In the rocketry challenge, there will be 2 ways to judge proficiency:
- Duration: Keeping the rocket airborne for the longest amount of time. (Clover Kids and Juniors) Contestants will be judged on the Duration of time from parachute deployment (use a powder dye charge) to landing in seconds. If the rocket lands outside of view or the rocket lands on a roof or in a tree, then time will stop when the rocket can no longer be seen and will receive a 5 second penalty. The longest time of the 2 attempts will be the contestant’s final score.
- Accuracy: Landing the rocket closest to a predetermined target. (Intermediates and Seniors) Intermediate and Senior contestants will be judged on Accuracy. Contestants will attempt to land their rocket on a designated target which will be a 10-foot diameter circle. The lowest score of the 2 attempts will be the contestant’s final score.
General Rules
- Each contestant will have two opportunities to launch their model rocket. If the rocket fails to launch, the contestant will lose their turn. Each contestant will be certain of having one successful launch. If a contestant has two failed launch attempts, they will be permitted one additional launch attempt.
- All rockets must have a recovery system. Only standard recovery systems, which include a parachute or streamer may be used for this contest.
- The contestant must use an engine recommended by the supplier.
- Each contestant will launch their own rocket. Each contestant will be asked to set up a launch system, prepare their rocket for launching and launch their rocket. These activities will be completed by one contestant at a time.
- All contestants must be present (or let the contest coordinator know when you will be in line to launch) at the start of their registered launch hour.
- Youth may adjust their rockets between launches.
- The contestants will be observed for proper and safe procedures during the event based on the NAR model rocket safety code. Any contestant not observing safety code, improperly using launch equipment, or walking onto the range during a contest will be disqualified.
- The flight contests are weather permitting. If there are high winds, heavy cloud cover, or rain, the contest will be delayed or moved to another date.
